Weekly Collection Schedule
Official municipal pickup timing for Teaneck
In New Jersey, municipal refuse and recycling routes operate weekly. Your exact collection days are determined by your local borough or township.
State Mandate
The NJ Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act requires all residents to separate designated recyclables.
Varies by contracted private hauler Bin (Trash)
Trash rules, including bin size, weight limits, and placement times, are dictated entirely by the terms of your contract with your chosen private garbage hauler.
Accepted Items
- ✓Everyday household garbage
- ✓Non-recyclable plastics
- ✓Food waste
- ✓Standard household refuse
Yellow Township-issued can or labeled 32-gallon container Bin (Recycling)
Containers must be lightweight metal or plastic, have handles, be no larger than 32 gallons, weigh under 50 lbs, and cannot be wider at the bottom than the top.
Accepted Items
- ✓Aluminum and tin cans
- ✓Glass bottles and jars (clear, brown, green)
- ✓Plastics #1, #2, and #5
- ✓Tied newspapers and mixed paper
- ✓Flattened and tied corrugated cardboard
Do NOT Include
- ✕Plastic bags
- ✕Styrofoam
- ✕Electronics and batteries
- ✕Pizza boxes with grease
- ✕Household hazardous waste
Yard Waste Bin
Must be placed in a standard 32-gallon container (under 50 lbs) or securely tied in manageable bundles. Never sweep yard waste into streets or storm drains.
Accepted Items
- ✓Grass clippings
- ✓Leaves
- ✓Small twigs and branches
- ✓Garden debris
Bulky Item Pickup
Frequency
Varies by private hauler agreement
Placement
Follow the specific instructions provided by your private hauling company regarding when and where to place bulk items.
Accepted
- ✓ Furniture
- ✓ Mattresses
- ✓ Large household items (subject to hauler approval)
Not Accepted
- ✕ White goods and appliances (Handled by DPW)
- ✕ Hazardous waste
- ✕ Electronics
- ✕ Construction debris
Bulk trash fees are set by your private hauler. However, the Township DPW will collect 'white goods' (appliances) curbside for free by appointment, except for Freon-containing items which incur a $20 fee.
Holiday Schedule
General Rule
For municipal recycling and yard waste, collections falling on a holiday are rescheduled according to the DPW's annual calendar. For regular trash, you must consult your private hauler's specific holiday policy.
Yard Waste Exception
Garden debris pickups may be suspended during major holidays or severe weather events to prioritize municipal street clearing.
Because garbage collection is privatized, holiday delay schedules will vary from neighbor to neighbor depending on which hauling company they employ.
Observed Holidays
Seasonal Information
Autumn
October - DecemberDuring peak leaf season, adhere strictly to the Township's garden debris schedules. Raking leaves into the street violates municipal stormwater regulations and can block critical drainage infrastructure.
Winter
January - MarchDuring snow events, ensure both your privately serviced trash cans and municipally serviced recycling bins are kept clear of snow plows. Do not place them in the street where they interfere with DPW salting operations.
Spring
April - JuneAs garden cleanups begin, remember that soil, dirt, and rocks are not accepted in garden debris collections. Ensure all trimmings are either containerized or bundled according to the 50-pound weight limit.
Local Tips & Community Info
Turning Your Clutter into Cash in Teaneck? Let's Talk Scrap!
While Teaneck doesn't have a dedicated local bottle/can redemption center you can walk into, don't let that stop you from getting a little back for your recyclables! For scrap metal like old appliances or broken bikes, check out places a short drive away. Metalico in Hackensack or United Industrial Metal Company in South Plainfield often pay for materials. Always call ahead to see what they're buying and their current rates. It's a great way to clear out that garage and make a few bucks!
Give Your Gently Used Stuff a Second Life in Teaneck
Before you toss out items that are still good, think about donating them! In the Teaneck area, the Bergen County Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Hackensack is a fantastic spot to drop off furniture, appliances, building materials, and home decor. They use the proceeds to build homes for families in need. Also, consider places like the Bergen Volunteer Center for potential local drives or even smaller thrift shops in neighboring towns that could use your contributions. Your donation makes a real difference!
Keeping Our Streets Clean: Teaneck's Take on Dumping & Cleanups
Nobody likes seeing trash where it doesn't belong. If you ever spot illegal dumping in Teaneck, the best bet is to report it directly to the Teaneck Department of Public Works. You can usually call their main line or check the town's official website for a specific reporting form. They also sometimes organize community cleanup days, so keep an eye on local bulletin boards and the town newsletter. Participating in these events is a super effective way to pitch in and show pride in our neighborhoods!
Drop-off Facilities
Teaneck Recycling Depot
1600 River Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666
Materials Accepted
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the town provide garbage collection in Teaneck?
No. The Township of Teaneck only provides curbside recycling and garden debris collection. For standard household garbage, homeowners must hire and pay a company from the Township's list of approved private garbage haulers.
How do I get rid of an old refrigerator or washing machine in Teaneck?
The Teaneck Department of Public Works offers 'white goods' pick-up curbside on Fridays. You must make an appointment by calling 201-837-1600 ext. 1727. Note that items containing Freon, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, require a $20 fee.
Where can I throw away an old television or laptop?
Electronic waste is not collected at the curb. You must bring computers, laptops, monitors, and TVs to the Teaneck Recycling Depot at 1600 River Road. The depot is open Friday through Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
What containers are allowed for curbside recycling?
You can use yellow Township-issued cans or personal containers. Personal containers must be lightweight metal or plastic, no larger than 32 gallons, weigh under 50 lbs, have handles, and cannot be wider at the bottom than the top (no pickle barrels).