Garbage

The Sanitation Department provides weekly garbage collection to citizens of Winston-Salem.  A few important points are noted below.  Additional information can be found in the City Ordinances, Chapter 26 or via this link.

  • Garbage and household trash, as defined in subsection 26-1(4)f. and 26-1(4)g., shall be collected curbside.
  • No additional bags may be placed outside the cart for collection. All garbage must be bagged using heavy-duty plastic bags and be completely contained within the cart, with the lid closed.  
  • One trash (96-gallon cart) and one recycling cart are provided to residents at no charge.
  • Regular pickup dates: The CityLink agent will tell you your regular pickup dates over the phone. In case you forget or if you want visual confirmation, enter your address into Winston-Salem Collects.
  • Holiday pickup changes: All changes for the current calendar year are listed on the Holiday Schedule page.
  • Read full list of rules for garbage, recycling, and yard waste collections, plus learn about our other optional and seasonal collections.

Get started by calling CityLink

  • 336-727-8000
  • 311 (if phone is within Winston-Salem city limits)

Guidelines for Curbside Collection


Watch the Guidelines for Curbside Collection video 

or review the following:


  • Carts should be at the curb by 6 a.m. the day of collection and                             earlier than 5 p.m. the day before
  •  Remove them from the curb by 8 a.m. the next day.
  • Do not place cart behind parked cars or within three                                              feet of trees and bushes or other carts.
  • Only the carts issued by the city can be used.
  • Place cart at the curb, not in the street.
  • The silver lift handle for the truck hoist should be facing the street. 
  • The hinge for the lid should be away from the street.
  • Use only the cart. 
  • Retain excess garbage for the next week’s collection.