John Smith Sanitation: What can I (or can't I) put in my garbage?

You can find the answers to our most commonly asked questions below. If you don't see the answer you were looking for, please send us your question.

What can I (or can't I) put in my garbage?

We have put together a comprehensive guide for you on our Garbage Collection page.

Do I have to bag my trash?

Yes! Bagging your trash is very helpful for a couple of reasons:

It dramatically reduces loose objects like paper which can fly away while the crew empties your trash into the truck.
Given the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation, this has become an employee and customer safety issue. The less contact we have with your trash and your trash can, the safer it is for everyone.

So please, place your trash in tied-off bags before placing it into your garbage cart to avoid any direct contact.

Our team truly appreciates your extra effort.

Do you pick up on holidays?

Yes, we pick up on most holidays with a few exceptions.

If we are not going to service your area due to a specific holiday you will receive a postcard notification in the mail at least one week prior to your pick up day. The postcard will indicate the new pick up day.

Our standard days off are Thursday and Sunday.

Will you pick up large items (e.g. an old mattress)?

Yes we can, but this would be considered a special pick up. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment (530) 235-2248.

How many cans can I set out for pickup?

The only can that should be out for pick up is your John Smith Sanitation garbage cart. We will not pick up non-John Smith Sanitation carts.

If you feel you need another cart because your trash volume is greater than the capacity of the cart, we can provide you with either a larger cart or an additional cart.

Call our office for fees (530) 235-2248.

Is there a real John Smith?

Yes, he was the founder of John Smith Sanitation, Inc. He formed this garbage business in 1946.

You can find out more about him on our John Smith memorial page.

What's the most interesting thing you ever found in the garbage?

Diamonds and Emeralds.

No, seriously - we don't go through the garbage before transporting it to the transfer station.

Can I use my own trash can?

No, use of your own can is not permitted unless otherwise notified.

As a John Smith Sanitation, Inc. customer you are issued your own garbage cart (wheels included), which is pretty cool and makes life much easier. Just roll it out to the curb on your pick up day.

What time is my pickup?

There really is no "set" pickup time.

Due to the changing needs and requests for dumpsters, etc. pickup times may be altered on the day of service.

Even if you see us "usually" picking up at 11 AM, we kindly remind you to place your trash out by 8 AM on the designated service day.

Remember: Don't get stuck - put your cart out by 8 AM, and you won't miss the truck.

I missed my pickup. What do I do now?

You may call our office to arrange a special pick up (530) 235-2248, but try to remember: Don't get stuck - put your cart out by 8 AM, and you won't miss the truck.

What areas do you serve?

We serve residents and businesses all throughout Siskiyou and Shasta County.

How do I request service?

There are 2 easy ways that you can set up service:

Call our office and a friendly representative will assist you over phone and set up your account.
Fill out the short "Service Sign-Up" on our website.

Can I request a special pickup?

If you have large bulky items that need to be picked up, call our office (530) 235-2248 so that we can arrange for an estimate and schedule a pickup date.

Another great option is to rent one our dumpsters.

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