Garbage and recycling pickup in Dallas could be affected by extreme winter weather

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas Department of Sanitation is preparing for potential disruptions in waste collection services from Wednesday through Friday as extreme cold weather conditions move into the region. With morning temperatures forecasted to drop into the low teens and wind chills in the single digits, sanitation crews are implementing contingency plans to ensure both service continuity and worker safety.

Adjustments to Collection Services

Dallas sanitation officials anticipate that automated collection routes, which utilize trucks with mechanical arms to lift and empty carts, will continue as scheduled as long as road conditions remain safe. However, manual collection routes, which require workers to physically handle carts, may experience significant delays. Supervisors will assess weather conditions throughout the day and will only allow work to proceed when it is deemed safe.

Any collection routes that typically begin at 7 a.m. but cannot start by 9 a.m. may not be completed on the scheduled service day. These delays could impact collection schedules through Friday, with crews scheduled to work on Saturday to catch up. Garbage collection will take priority over recycling, and any missed pickups will be accommodated during the following week’s regular service.

Safety Protocols for Sanitation Crews

Ensuring the well-being of outdoor workers remains the top priority for the Dallas Department of Sanitation. To protect employees from the extreme cold, strict safety measures are being implemented, including frequent warm-up breaks and continuous supervision by drivers and sanitation supervisors. These protocols aim to minimize the risk of cold-related illnesses and injuries.

Keeping Residents Informed

Dallas residents are encouraged to stay updated on service changes and potential delays through multiple channels. Updates will be available on the city’s sanitation website at Dallas.gov/Sanitation, and customers can download the Dallas Sanitation app on iPhone and Android for real-time service alerts specific to their area.

Officials appreciate the patience and understanding of Dallas residents as crews navigate the challenges posed by the extreme weather conditions.