Recycling collection for much of Milwaukee becomes unscheduled Dec. 4. What that means.

Collection for about two-thirds of recycling routes in the City of Milwaukee will move to “unscheduled” winter times on Monday, Dec. 4.

Here’s what you need to know:

Where can I find my recycling schedule and learn if my collection switches to ‘unscheduled’ in the winter?

Milwaukeeans looking for their garbage and recycling pickup schedules can find that information by entering their addresses at Milwaukee.gov/CollectionDay.

Additional instructions can also be found at the link.

What do I do with my recycling cart on an ‘unscheduled’ route?

Those whose recycling collection becomes “unscheduled” on Dec. 4 are asked to leave the recycling cart visible at its storage location during the winter season.

Crews will empty it every 15 to 20 days or so and need a shoveled path in order to access it, according to the Department of Public Works.

When does ‘unscheduled’ recycling collection end?

Generally, regular recycling schedules resume for all households around the Monday closest to April 1.

In 2024, that date falls on April 1, according to the Department of Public Works.

Why does recycling become ‘unscheduled’ in the winter?

Recycling becomes “unscheduled” in winter so the city can redirect recycling crews to snow and ice removal.

Alison Dirr can be reached at adirr@jrn.com. Find her on X at @AlisonDirr.