A move produces more trash than anyone plans for: packing paper, broken boxes, old furniture. Before you arrive, it helps to know who collects what and where the extra goes.
Who collects
Under the franchise agreements, Waste Management is the company permitted to collect household garbage in Reno, Sparks and Washoe County, and the homeowner or renter arranges weekly service. Reno's 2012 franchise added curbside single-stream recycling, so recyclables go in one cart without sorting. Your apartment or landlord may handle service for you, so ask before you order a cart.
In March 2026 the Reno City Council received notice of a Waste Management rate adjustment effective April 1, so check the current rate with WM when you sign up.
Bulky items and cleanups
The City of Reno holds Biggest Little Spring Cleaning and fall refresh events with roll-off bins for bulky household items such as furniture and outdoor items, up to a truck-bed load. Hazardous and electronic waste have a separate route through Waste Management's voucher program. The Washoe County Health District's page also lists a number of transfer-station trips each year for Reno and Sparks residents who are current on their WM bill; confirm the current allowance.
Fall events are announced on reno.gov each year, so check the City's calendar rather than relying on last year's date.
Move-out and move-in waste
Flatten moving boxes and put them in the recycling cart. Packing paper is also recyclable in many carts, but ask WM. The 10 free heavy-duty boxes that come with an O'Brien's in-home estimate are yours to keep, which cuts cardboard because they are sturdy enough to reuse. Our boxes guide and supplies page cover what to buy.
Ask your estimator about items such as old mattresses, paint and propane tanks before packing day. Our what movers will not move guide explains what is excluded from a load, and the county has disposal sites for hazardous items.
Clearing a home before a move
Downsizing households often donate first, sell second and dispose of the rest. Plan a few weeks for it. O'Brien's de-clutter help and senior move service support the sorting. Items you want to keep but not place yet can go to vault storage from $40 per month.
Setting up service
Call WM before the move-in date so the cart is delivered. Add trash and recycling to your utilities list. For a free in-home estimate and 10 free heavy-duty boxes, call O'Brien's at 775-359-6683.