Full Breakdown
Denver Adjusts Trash and Recycling Schedule for Thanksgiving
11/25/2025, 8:45:04 PM
Changes to Waste Collection Schedule
In anticipation of Thanksgiving, the City of Denver has implemented a modified schedule for trash, recycling, and compost collection. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has instructed residents to place their black trash carts out by 6 a.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025. Collection crews will operate from Monday through Wednesday, as there will be no service on Thursday due to the holiday. Residents whose regular pickup days fall later in the week are advised to set out their trash one day earlier than usual. For instance, those with Wednesday pickups should have their trash out by Tuesday at 6 a.m., while Thursday pickups must be set out by Wednesday at 6 a.m.
Impact on Recycling and Composting Services
Notably, there will be no recycling or composting services provided during this week. This suspension is attributed to the Thanksgiving holiday and a citywide furlough day on Friday, which was enacted in response to budget cuts. Residents in areas designated for large-item pickup are encouraged to place those items out on the same day as their trash collection.
Resumption of Regular Services
Following the holiday week, most waste collection services are expected to return to their regular schedules. However, the city has announced that the recycling calendar will reset. Residents who typically set out their recycling carts this week will instead have their next pickup on the week of December 1, 2025. This adjustment means that those who anticipated recycling collection next week will need to wait until the week of December 8, 2025, and then continue with the every-other-week schedule thereafter.
Official Statements & Responses
City officials have communicated the changes to residents, emphasizing the need for adjustments due to the holiday and budget constraints. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has urged residents to plan accordingly to avoid any disruption in their waste disposal routines.
Criticism & Opposition
Some residents have expressed frustration over the lack of recycling services during the holiday week, highlighting concerns about increased waste generation during this time. Critics argue that the city should have found alternative solutions to maintain recycling services, especially given the environmental implications of increased landfill waste.
What's Next
As the holiday season approaches, residents are advised to stay informed about any further changes to the waste collection schedule. The city plans to resume normal operations the following week, and residents are encouraged to check for updates regarding their specific service days.
