Questions and Answers about Collection

What is Automated Collection?

Automated collection is a technologically advanced system of refuse collection.  The system is called “automated” because a special truck, equipped with a mechanical/robotic Arm, automatically lifts and empties special trash containers without the driver ever leaving the cab of the truck.  This is a system designed to improve efficiency, make the task of putting out garbage easier and cleaner for the residents, improve the appearance of the Town and greatly reduce the injury potential for town employees.  The new automated system is safer, more efficient and requires less labor to collect solid waste.  In addition, because the mechanical arm performs all the lifting, there is no risk of injury to the operator.  This system reduces labor and will allow us to keep up with growing demand without adding routes.

How Does Automation Work?

TRASH COLLECTION

Using the new automated system is easy!  On your regular trash collection day, simply place your household trash into the wheeled container supplied by the Town and place your container in the street with the lid opening facing the street.  Your container must be at least four feet from objects (including parked vehicles, fire hydrants, etc.) on either side.  Your container must be placed at the curb by 7 a.m. on your collection day.  Trash collection takes place once each week for each town resident.  All bagged garbage must be placed inside the container, if not, it will not be collected.

What can I put in the container for trash collection?

Only household trash can be put in your container.  Do not place yard waste, brush, or any construction debris in your container.  Automotive parts, tires, hazardous waste and hot ashes are prohibited.  All trash must be contained in the container or it will not be collected.  Recycling will not be affected by automated collections.  All recycling requirements will continue and recyclable items may not be placed in your new container.  The Town’s recycling program will be reviewed this year and updated information, educational material, and public notices will be made available.

Can I use another container?

Only the containers issued by the town can be used.  Trash left outside the containers will not be collected.  Containers that are blocked or turned the wrong way cannot be emptied and will be passed by the collection truck.

What size are the containers?

Two sizes will be used.  Containers provided to each separate house will be 95-gallon capacity.  For condominiums and apartments, 65-gallon containers will be provided.  The larger size is recommended wherever possible.  Operational efficiency is lost if numbers of smaller containers are collected.

Will there be a charge for the containers?

Anyone requiring a new container for replacement, unless damaged by the Town, will be charged $75 for a new container.  The charge of $75 will also apply to new households receiving service after January 2004.  Containers will be registered to a specific address and remain at this address for future owners to use.

Do I need to bag my trash?

You are encouraged bag all trash before it is put in the roll container.  Bagging helps keep your container clean and reduces wind-blown litter.  The Town cannot pick up litter blown out of the containers.  If you continue to use existing smaller containers, you must transfer it to your new container for collection.

Where should I put my container?

Containers must be placed at least three feet from obstacles such as utility poles, mailboxes, trees, and parked cars.  Containers must be within two feet of the curb edge.  Make sure the container handle faces away from the street toward your home.  When your containers are delivered, they will be placed in the most ideal location for service.  Please place the containers in that same location each week for collection.  If there are any questions about the best location, the town will provide a mark out upon request.

Why do the handles on the containers need to be facing my house?

The automated collection truck cannot turn the container around as it picks it up.  Dumping the container “backwards” can break or damage the lid.

Why do I need to provide space between my container and other items out for collection?

A different vehicle collects each item, so access is important.  Also, the collection arm on the automated truck requires space to make the collection safely so that it will not tip over other containers or damage your property.  Please keep the containers away from mailboxes, fire hydrants, telephone poles and other obstacles that may interfere with the collection.

When should I put the container out?

Your container must be at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on your trash day.  After your container is emptied, remove it from the curb that day.

Will a 95-gallon container be sufficient for my trash?  What if I need more than one container?

Experience has shown that the large 95-gallon containers are sufficient for most homes.  One container holds the equivalent of three average garbage containers.  Proper recycling also helps reduce the volume of garbage.  It is not anticipated that more that one container will be required at an address.  If you have unique circumstances justifying and additional container the Town will provide a second container for which there will be a charge of $75 for either size container.

What if my container gets damaged or stolen?

The containers are the property of the Town of East Lyme and each one is assigned an address and a serial number.  All reports of damage or theft will be investigated and should be reported to the Sanitation office at 739-8444.  If our collection truck caused the damage, we will replace the container at no charge to you.  If the damage is from any other cause, the resident is responsible for replacement.  Wheels, lids and axles are normally replaced at not cost to the resident.  Please DO NOT write house numbers or put any other marking on the containers.  If you move, please leave the container at your existing address.

What should I do with my old trashcans?

If you do not wish to keep your old trash container, please place a note, PLEASE TAKE, on the trash can the week of your first automated collection and a separate truck will collect it.

How can I help as a taxpayer and citizen?

1.                  Please follow these suggestions for setting out your new container

2.                  Continue to recycle

3.                  Keep your container clean and do not over fill.  The lid must be able to close.

4.                  Have your container out by 7:00 a.m.

5.                  If you have comments or suggestions please let us know at 739-8444.