MEMPHIS, Tenn., Oct 31, 2025 – The City of Memphis Solid Waste Division is preparing for an increase in bulk waste collection services due to the seasonal rise in yard debris and leaf cleanup. As falling leaves and storm debris create heavier collection volumes across the City, the Division is reminding residents to follow proper curbside guidelines to ensure safe and efficient service.
“Each fall, we experience a noticeable increase in the amount of bulk waste and yard debris collected throughout Memphis,” said Philip Davis, Director of Solid Waste. “Our crews are working diligently to keep up with the seasonal demand, and residents can help by preparing debris properly and following city collection guidelines.”
Curbside Collection Guidelines
To facilitate efficient curbside service, residents are asked to adhere to the following guidelines:
· All contractors are required to remove leaves and limbs they bag or cut. City ordinance requires landscaping contractors/tree services to remove debris generated from their work. If the contractor fails to do so, the property owner will be responsible for costs incurred by the City for removal and disposal. This includes contractors under the direction of Memphis Light, Gas, & Water.
· Property owners who cut their own tree debris must cut to less than 5 feet in length or less than 13 inches in diameter. City ordinance requires tree debris presented by customers to be cut to these dimensions. Larger debris can damage collection equipment. Failure to adhere will result in notice of code violation, and the property owner will be responsible for costs incurred by the City for removal and disposal.
· Keep all tree limbs and branches in a separate pile – away from non-vegetative debris (furniture, mattresses, other bulky or bagged household waste). The City makes every effort to mulch or compost organic debris. Failure to do so may cause longer wait times for storm debris collection.
· Move all debris to the curb. Solid Waste Division equipment cannot leave the street. Crews will not complete collection if they are unable to reach debris from the road. Please avoid blocking debris by moving vehicles at least four feet away from storm debris at the curb. Any debris in the middle of the lawn after a crew pickup must be moved to the curb for collection.
· Regular bulk items and bulk waste will be collected during scheduled bulk weeks. Regular bulk waste items are collected twice monthly based on address location. Check when your address is scheduled for bulk collection via the Memphis Curbside Collection app or city website at https://memphistn.gov/solid-waste/ .
· Drop-off locations remain available. A recent MLGW bill is needed for proof of solid waste fee payment. Residential solid waste customers can take storm debris to:
Farrisview (3207 Farrisview Blvd) – Monday – Friday, 8am to 3pmCollins Yard (304 Collins Street) – Friday – Sunday, 9am to 3pm
Other Solid Waste Materials: Residential solid waste customers can take one truckload of non-hazardous waste to the landfill each month. Landfill locations are:
Republic Services North Shelby Landfill 7111 Old Millington Rd Millington, TN 38053
Republic Services South Shelby Landfill 5494 Malone Rd Memphis, TN 38119
Media Contact:
Arlenia Cole, Media Affairs Manager