Dumpster Rental FAQs in Utica, NY

Feel free to read answers to some common questions we receive. Controlled Waste Systems Inc. in Utica, NY, can be reached at 315-724-2974.

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • What time does my trash/recycling need to be at the curb?

    Trash and recyclables need to be at the curb by midnight the night before your scheduled collection day.

  • Does trash inside my cart have to be bagged?

    Please ensure all trash is properly bagged so that it can be cleanly dumped by our drivers/trucks. Our drivers will not reach down into the cart or can to remove stuck/frozen trash.

  • Can I dispose of electronics in my trash?

    State regulations require electronics (TVs, computers, and printers) to be properly recycled. Please contact us for additional information.

  • Can I dispose of paint in my trash?

    Paint may be placed out with your regular trash if it is solidified. Sawdust, sand, or kitty litter may be used to help dry it out. Alternatively, hardware stores that carry paint also sell packets of powder that will harden paint in minutes.

  • Where should I place my trash can and recycling bin?

    Trash Cart: Use trash bags and keep the lid closed. Drivers will not reach into carts to remove items frozen to the bottom.

    Recycle Bin: Place items directly into bins (NO PLASTIC BAGS).  See the recycle chart for instructions.

    Place the cart on a level area with no more than 3 ft. from the street with wheels away from the street and the lid opening to the street. Keep 3 ft. away from any object such as a mailbox, vehicle, tree, basketball hoop, etc.

    Keep 2 feet away from any additional carts so the truck’s arm can go around each cart.

    Please be sure that no overhead wires or tree branches interfere with lifting the carts vertically. Carts placed too close to any object or an overhead obstruction will not be picked up due to the liability of damage to the object. Please DO NOT deface the cart. Additional charges may apply for the replacement of a cart damaged or defaced by a customer.

  • What holidays might affect my collection day?

    Holidays do not affect trash collection. 

  • How do I dispose of a refrigerator or air conditioner?

    You will need to contact us before setting these types of items out for collection. All freon must be removed from these types of appliances. Due to federal regulations, appliances containing Freon or other chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) must be certified prior to disposal so that no gas remains in the appliance. A certified technician can do this for you.

Contact Us

A group of people are putting their hands together in a huddle.

Supporting Autism Awareness—CWSI Gives Back

March 14, 2025
At Controlled Waste Systems Inc., we are proud to support Autism Awareness and stand with families, educators, and advocates working toward a brighter future for individuals on the spectrum. This cause is personal to us, and we are dedicated to making a difference through fundraising, community events, and spreading awareness. Autism Awareness Month—Special Initiatives Each year, during Autism Awareness Month (April), we launch a special initiative to raise funds and awareness for autism-related causes. 💙 Special Promotion: First Month Free for New Customers— Any new commercial waste service customer who signs a one-year contract in April will have their first month of service donated to an autism organization in their name. 🚛 Autism-Themed Trucks— You may have seen one of our specially wrapped trucks featuring autism awareness graphics. These trucks are dedicated to spreading the message and showing our commitment to the cause. 🎗️ Community Events & Donations—We participate in local autism walks, fundraising events, and awareness campaigns, and a portion of our proceeds in April go directly to local autism advocacy groups. Supporting the autism community is about more than just fundraising—it’s about understanding, acceptance, and creating opportunities. We encourage other local businesses to join us in making a difference this year!  📞 Want to get involved? Contact us today to learn how you can help!
A group of people are picking up trash in the woods.

Giving Back to Our Community—CWSI’s Local Involvement

March 14, 2025
At Controlled Waste Systems Inc. (CWSI), we believe that being a locally owned and operated company means more than just providing reliable waste services—we are committed to giving back to the communities we serve. Throughout the year, CWSI actively supports local organizations, events, and initiatives that make a difference in Oneida and Herkimer counties. Whether it's sponsoring local cleanup efforts, supporting schools, or participating in charity events, we are always looking for ways to help our neighbors. Recent & Upcoming Community Events: 🗑️ Neighborhood Cleanup Days—We’ve partnered with local organizations to provide roll-off dumpsters for community cleanups, making it easier for residents to dispose of bulk waste responsibly. 🍂 Fall & Spring Bulk Waste Collections—Twice a year, we offer discounted bulk waste disposal options, allowing homeowners to get rid of old furniture, yard waste, and other items that aren’t part of regular trash collection. 🚛 Touch-a-Truck Event for Kids— We love seeing kids explore and learn about our trucks! Our team participates in Touch-a-Truck events, where families can see our waste collection vehicles up close and learn about how waste service keeps our towns clean. 🏡 Helping Local Businesses—We support small businesses, apartment complexes, and construction companies by offering flexible, affordable waste solutions tailored to their needs. Community involvement is at the heart of what we do at CWSI, and we’re always looking for ways to support local causes. If you know of an event that could benefit from our services, contact us today! 📅 Stay tuned for more events, and follow us on social media to see where we’ll be next!