Out by 7 a.m.
Put carts at the alley or curb collection point on the scheduled day. Bring them back by 10 p.m.
When is my garbage or recycling pickup?
Enter a City of Milwaukee address to see the next collection dates, download calendar reminders, and get the set-out rules in one place.
Live City schedule lookup · Guidance checked September 8, 2026
Look up an address
Use the street address for a home with one to four units.
Your address goes directly to the City’s public schedule service. MKEstuff does not store it.
Get the carts ready
Four things prevent most collection problems.
Leave 3 feet
Keep carts at least 3 feet from cars, poles, mailboxes, and other objects, with a clear path for crews.
Bag garbage
Secure household garbage in bags before placing it in the garbage cart.
Keep recycling loose
Put accepted recyclables directly in the blue cart. Do not bag them.
Snow and ice can delay scheduled pickups. Clear ice and snow from carts and the path to them; if service is delayed, leave the carts out until emptied.
More collection help
Use the City for changes, reminders, and service requests.
Collection questions
How often does Milwaukee collect garbage and recycling?
For homes served by City Sanitation, garbage is generally collected weekly and recycling every other week. Holidays, snow, and other service changes can shift a date.
What time should I put my carts out?
Put carts at the collection point by 7 a.m. on the scheduled date and return them to storage by 10 p.m.
Who can use this lookup?
The City of Milwaukee collects household garbage and recycling from properties with one to four units. Larger apartment buildings and businesses may use a private service.