Press Releases

The City of Dearborn today announced enhancements to its new – about to be launched – trash and recycle program.  For the first time, residents with health and physical challenges may apply for cart pickup assistance. 

Residents with demonstrated hardships are being encouraged to begin the application process.

Mayor John B O’Reilly, Jr. said “We have a specific application process that is being implemented. It is a model used successfully in other communities.  A doctor’s health certificate is required.  We want to immediately identify residents who believe they will have physical difficulty moving their new 96-gallon carts to their curbs.  We are actively looking for homes that may need special service. All callers’ names will be added to a list. We will respond to everyone who phones. 

Trash and Recycling Facts - Trash and Recycling Guidelines - Section Map - Calendar

 Jim Murray, Director for Dearborn’s Department of Public Works echoes that sentiment  “Our priority is the health and safety of our residents. It’s important that people register with us as soon as possible”

All applications will be evaluated. Additional details will be outlined to residents when they phone. Residents who believe they qualify for this free service may begin the application process by calling 943-2085

The new trash and recycling program uses 96-gallon carts as part of overall improvements to the curbside service which launches the week of July 5.

An important part of the improvement is the new service which assists residents with health challenges who may not be able to push their carts to the curbside and back. The city is offering pickup assistance. This free, personal pickup service for qualified residents with physical disabilities or health issues is included in the city’s contract with Republic Services.

For people who qualify, on collection day, a Republic Services employee will walk on to their property and transport their trash or recycling cart to the disposal or recycling truck. The employee will return the carts to their proper storage areas.

Another option being offered by the City for qualified people with disabilities or limitations caused by age is a smaller, 64-gallon cart.

The City of Dearborn also recognizes there may be property barriers and storage limitations beyond the control of a resident that make it impossible to use a 96-gallon cart.  Households with those situations may also apply for the smaller, 64-gallon trash or recycle cart by also calling 943-2085.  A city representative will review the household’s property situation.

Dearborn residents who have limited amounts of trash are encouraged to still use the 96-gallon cart.  The new automated service costs the same and uses the same process whether one bag of garbage is in the cart or ten bags.   The “footprint” of the cart at the curb and in the resident’s storage area also remains the same.   Mayor O’Reilly said “Everyone in Dearborn looks forward to a successful new trash and recycle program.  I’m asking our residents without special needs to try out their free carts.  If, after a number of weeks, they’re having difficulty, give us a call.  We’ll do our best to meet their request.”