Don’t dump – just schedule a bulky item pickup



ARCATA – The City of Arcata needs the help of its residents to eliminate illegal dumping and unsightly littering in Arcata streets, alleys and other public right-of-ways.

A lot of unwanted furniture, dishes, books and other items are left on street corners and sidewalks. The City of Arcata is required to keep streets and sidewalks clean and safe meaning city crews must often stop other work to pick up the unwanted mattresses, sofas and clothes for transport to the landfill.

When no longer in want or need an item, the best thing to do is to donate it. This ensures that the unwanted item does not end up in the landfill and that the person on the receiving end will save money and resources by not buying it new. Various local thrift stores will accept gently used items that are in good condition.

A list of local thrift stores and non-profits can be found on the city website and on the city’s “Don’t Dump and Run” brochure, available at City Hall or online at tinyurl.com/DDRBrochure.

Please make sure that all items are clean, dry and in good working condition. Please call before donating to confirm the items accepted and location hours!

If thrift stores and non-profits don’t or can’t take items, make sure to take it to the appropriate disposal site. Check the Materials Management Guide tinyurl.com/Materials Management to learn how to properly dispose of everything from a light bulb to appliances and furniture.

When in need of transportation to the dump, remember that residential Recology account holders are entitled to two bulky item pickups a year at no extra cost! Call Recology Arcata at (707) 683-4853 to schedule a pick-up.

To report illegal dumping, please call Arcata Police dispatcher at (707) 822-2424. For more information on zero waste practices, visit cityofarcata.org/275/Zero-Waste or call the Environmental Services Department at (707) 822-8184.