How to recycle / dispose trash cans

Collection crews are understandably reluctant to take a trash can along with the other items they collect. If you have a trash can to recycle or dispose, please help your crew by taking these steps.

If your trash can is metal

If your recycling service is provided by Montgomery County:

• Request a scrap metal collection for your metal trash can.
• On your collection day, turn your empty can upside down when setting it at the curb for collection.
• Place a large note on the can, identifying it as "Scrap Metal". Make sure that the note is visible from the street.

Or, bring your can directly to the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station. Take it to the Scrap Metal drop-off in the Recycling area.

If your trash can is plastic

To recycle your plastic can, bring it to the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station. Take it to the bulky rigid plastics container in the Recycling area. We cannot accept it for recycling in your weekly curbside collection.

For curbside pickup as trash, if your trash service is provided by Montgomery County:

• Request a bulk trash collection collection for your plastic trash can.
• On your collection day, turn your empty can upside down when setting it at the curb for collection.
• Place a large note on the can, identifying it as "Bulk Trash". Make sure that the note is visible from the street.