You need to clean up your act, Indianapolis. Today we're talking all things garbage. (Plus, how to downsize your dump through recycling and composting.)

The basics

House-dwellers, this one's for you. First step? Find your trash pick-up days. Marion County collects residential trash five days a week. When pick-up day rolls around, be sure your trash is out on the curb before 7 a.m.

All trash must be in 10- to 15-gallon garbage bags + inside your trash cart. Don't have a cart? The city provides residents with a 96-gallon trash cart that stays with the house. But you can also grab another one for $65.

Heavy trash

Some stuff is just too heavy to go out with the regular trash — think: box springs and household furniture. Fortunately, there are regular opportunities for heavy trash pickup or you can head to the Citizens’ Transfer Station.

Pro tip: The fee is $2 per carload or $5 per SUV.

Seasonal disposal

Burning leaves and dumping trees is illegal in Marion County. Learn how to dispose of autumn leaves and where to drop off Christmas trees.

Recycling

The city contracts with Republic Services for drop-off recycling sites throughout the city. You can also subscribe for curbside pickup from Republic's or Ray's, depending on your location. Find your nearest drop-off site.

Learn the rules first. Check out our tips and tricks to recycling.

Composting

Make that waste get to work by turning it into compost. Check out our beginner's guide to composting. If you don't have the space (or time) — consider a subscription to a local composting service.

Want to volunteer for a neighborhood cleanup? Need to drop off hazardous waste? Looking for dead animal removal? Information on these topics and more are available on the city's website.