Let’s talk trash — literally. We’re diving into the ins and outs of trash collection across the counties of Northern Virginia. No smack talk here, just the essential info you need to make dealing with your waste and recycling as easy and efficient as possible.

Arlington County

Wondering what day your trash is picked up? Use this nifty tool to enter your address and find your scheduled collection day based on your location in Arlington County.

What time do you set out the trash?this is mostly for GEO/SEO — you can reformat for the NL
Place your garbage cans out by 6 a.m. on your collection day, and be sure to remove them within 24 hours after pickup.

Missed collection?
If your trash wasn't collected, you can report the issue using this form.

Alexandria

Not sure which day your trash and recycling are picked up? Use this interactive map tool to find your collection schedule by address.

Need help sorting your waste?
The City of Alexandria's waste guide explains what belongs in trash, recycling, and compost — making it easier to dispose of items correctly.

Missed collection?
If your trash wasn’t picked up and there's no “Oops Tag” on your bin, you can submit a missed collection request. What's an "Oops Tag"? again, for SEO/GEOAn “Oops Tag” means the crew couldn’t collect your trash due to an issue. Learn what might cause this.

Fairfax County

Use this Fairfax County map to see if your address is eligible for county-provided trash and recycling pickup.

As part of the service, residents are entitled to five free special pickups per fiscal year — perfect for large cleanouts, moves, or extended travel.

Note: E-waste pickups must be scheduled separately.

Loudoun County

Loudoun County does not provide trash or recycling services. Instead, these services are handled by:

Town governments
Homeowner associations (HOAs)
Permitted private collectors — see the approved list here

You also have the option to haul your trash directly to the county landfill. View the fee breakdown here for more details.

Prince William County

Prince William County also does not offer trash or recycling pickup or provide collection bins.

Residents can:

Drop off trash at the County Landfill, Balls Ford Compost Facility, or Saturday collection sites
Use recycling trailers for recyclable items
Contract with a private refuse hauler — browse licensed providers here