FAQs
What is automated collection?
In the past, Lancaster residents put their recycling in 22-gallon bins that were manually emptied into the recycling truck. With automated collection, residents place recycling in a specific type of cart. The cart is emptied into the recycling truck by a robotic collection arm of the vehicle.
Why did we switch to automated collection?
Manual collection requires teams of 1-3 workers to lift and empty recycling bins into a collection vehicle. This physically demanding, repetitive work can result in injuries. It is slower, less efficient and results in much higher spillage rates.
Manual collection also exposes workers to traffic or waste, which increases risk of serious injury, illness or even death.
Automated collection requires special equipment, including trucks and carts. The most distinguishing feature of automated collection trucks is the robotic arm that lifts the cart and dumps recyclables into the truck. Positioning carts in the proper direction in the correct position is critical to success of automated collection. Some benefits of automated refuse collection include:
- Enhanced Service Delivery - Customer satisfaction rates are higher with automated collection than manual collection. Senior citizens like the convenience of using a cart program.
- Cleaner Communities - Carts have closed lids, are designed not to tip over and efficiently empty into trucks. That means less materials on the streets of the community.
- Higher Recycling Rates - Automated recycling collection provides residents with a convenient wheeled cart for recyclables. This makes it easier for residents to recycle more.
- Improved Safety - Automated collection greatly reduces physical injuries and accidents for sanitation workers.
Where/how should I place my cart on collection day?
Residents with rear facing garages should place their carts in the alley with wheels to the curb. Cart opening should face the street.
Carts should be approximately 3 feet from other carts, mail box, fence, parked cars or any other obstruction.
A vertical clearance of 14′ to 16’ is necessary for carts to be serviced. Low-hanging trees may obstruct cart from being serviced. (The minimum vertical clearance is 14 feet. However, 16 feet is preferable.)
How do I look up my collection day?
You can also view an Interactive Trash Schedule Map here. You can also download a Trash Schedule Map here. Should you have any additional questions, please call the City of Lancaster at 972-218-1300.
Who should I contact if my recycling is missed?
Please contact the City of Lancaster at 972-218-1324. Recycling may be missed due to oversight by truck driver. A Notice of Non-collection tag will be placed on cart if it is not serviced for other reasons such as improper cart placement.
Will I be charged a fee for a recycling cart?
No. To encourage residents to recycle, the City of Lancaster provides 1 recycling cart free to residents. Additional carts will require a monthly fee applied to your utility bill.
What if my cart breaks?
Please contact the Utility Billing Division so they can enter a work order. Damaged/broken carts will be replaced or repaired at no cost to resident. The City of Lancaster, Utility Billing Division may be reached at 972-218-1328, Or send an email to waterbilling@lancaster-tx.com.
What if my recycle day falls on a holiday?
CWD recognizes the following holidays:
- New Years Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day