Houston Turns Heavy Trash Pickup into “Call-When-You-Need-It” Service

Houston has officially flipped the script on how heavy trash (bulk and tree waste) gets collected across the city. Starting in early March 2026, the City’s Solid Waste Management Department is ending the traditional fixed monthly pickup schedule in favor of a call-to-schedule system through 311 — and that’s a game changer for residents tired of waiting weeks for crews to show up. 

Why the Change?

The old model had crews driving every street on a set rotation, whether or not residents put out heavy trash. Solid Waste officials say this approach was inefficient, contributed to service delays, and made it harder to track where help was actually needed. Under the new system, residents call 311 to request heavy trash service and the city responds directly. 

How It Works

Here’s the new process in a nutshell:

1. Call 311 — dial 3-1-1 (or 713-837-0311) or use the online Houston 311 service site to submit a service request for heavy trash pickup. 

2. Schedule a Pickup — after requesting service, 311 will provide you with a scheduled collection date within about five business days. You’ll receive confirmation by phone or email. 

3. Set Out Your Items — make sure your heavy trash (furniture, appliances, tree limbs, etc.) is curb-ready by the assigned date so crews can pick it up promptly. 

4. Limits Apply — households can request heavy trash pickup up to four times per year per address. 

This lets residents call in only when they truly have large waste to dispose of, freeing up Solid Waste resources to respond where demand is real and immediate. 

Still Plenty of Tools to Help

Houston also offers digital tools beyond just a phone call:

• The HTX Collects mobile app (aka HTX Trash and Recycling) lets residents see trash and recycling schedules, set reminders, and understand what goes where — though its core focus is still regular waste and recycling pickup rather than scheduling heavy trash. 

• You can always submit and track a 311 request online, check service status, or follow up if something gets missed. 

Old Routine Still Matters (for Now)

Until the new system fully rolls out, some parts of Houston may still be operating under the older monthly schedule — where heavy trash must be placed at the curb at prescribed times and crews go out on a rotation. 

Why This Matters

Heavy trash — from old sofas to tree limbs — has been one of the most complained-about services in Houston’s 311 data. Missed pickups and long waits have frustrated residents for years. This transition puts control back in the hands of homeowners and gives Solid Waste a better way to allocate crews and track performance — a smarter, more accountable approach to keeping Houston’s streets clear.