Moving in often means piles of boxes, yard trimmings, and a few bulky leftovers. If you are new to San Antonio, the city’s brush and bulky pickup can be a lifesaver when you know the rules. This guide shows you how the program works, what goes where, and the fastest options if you need items gone sooner. You will learn how to avoid fees, where to drop off special items, and who to call when plans change. Let’s dive in.
San Antonio curbside basics
Timing and notification
San Antonio provides curbside brush and bulky collection twice a year for residential solid‑waste customers. You will get a door hanger about 7 to 10 days before your collection week, and pickups can take up to a week to complete. The door hanger shows your collection week, not the exact day. For program timing and notices, see the city’s brush collection overview on the 311 site (brush collection basics).
Set-out rules and size limits
Place piles at the curb in front of your home, within 8 feet of the curb. Have items out by 7 a.m. on Monday of your scheduled week, since crews will not return if they pass your address. Keep brush and bulky items in separate piles and keep each pile at or under 8 cubic yards. Review curbside placement rules on the city page (curbside brush and bulky rules).
What belongs in each pile
Brush items
Accepted brush includes tree branches, shrubs, woody vines, and similar yard trimmings. Do not include household garbage, construction debris, tires, hazardous waste, soil or rocks, or plastic‑bagged leaves. For the city’s detailed list, check the brush guidelines (accepted and prohibited brush).
Bulky items
Typical bulky items include furniture, large appliances like stoves and washers, mattresses, carpeting in small pieces, barbecue grills, fencing material, and similar large household items. Do not place brush or yard waste in the bulky pile, and avoid hazardous materials or construction rubble beyond city limits. See the city’s bulky collection guidance for examples (bulky item rules and examples).
Prep tips to avoid fees
- Separate brush and bulky piles and keep each under the size limit.
- Place piles away from parked cars, mailboxes, water meters, fences, and low branches. Do not block sidewalks or streets.
- Remove doors from appliances if instructed and secure loose parts.
- Never place paint, pesticides, automotive fluids, batteries, or many electronics in piles. Take these to Household Hazardous Waste drop‑offs or events (Household Hazardous Waste info).
Improper set‑outs can lead to extra charges and fines. City code allows fines up to $2,000 per day for certain solid‑waste violations. If you are unsure, call 311 before setting items out (solid waste code penalties).
Need pickup sooner
Out-of-cycle curbside pickup
If you miss your week or need items gone fast, request an out‑of‑cycle pickup for a fee. Current examples include $50 for one item or up to 4 cubic yards, plus $25 for each additional 4 cubic yards or portion. The city provides a free curbside estimate, then schedules pickup, often within two business days. You cannot request out‑of‑cycle service during your regular collection week. Start through 311 or the online form (out‑of‑cycle request and fees).
Drop-off centers and events
If you can haul items, Bulky Waste Collection Centers are open year‑round. Bring photo ID and a recent CPS Energy bill that shows payment of the city environmental fee. Bulky items are limited to 4 cubic yards per visit and construction debris to 1 cubic yard. Typical hours are Tue–Fri 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sat 8 a.m.–noon. Locations include Bitters, Frio City Road, Culebra, and Rigsby Road. Check details before you go (bulky drop‑off centers).
For brush and leaves, the Bitters Brush Recycling Center accepts drop‑offs for mulching. Loads must be covered to prevent litter, and uncovered loads can receive a small penalty. See accepted materials and site rules (brush drop‑off and recycling).
The city also hosts Free Landfill Days on selected dates. These allow free drop‑offs for eligible customers with proof of residency and payment. Loads must be tarped and some items are excluded. Check upcoming dates on the 311 site or call 311 (Free Landfill Day details).
Donation and private options
If items are still usable, consider donating to local reuse programs like Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Always call first to confirm what they accept and whether pickup is available (Habitat ReStore San Antonio). When donation is not a fit, you can hire a private junk removal or specialty recycler. Compare pricing, insurance, and recycling practices before booking.
Quick move-in checklist
- Watch for your city door hanger about 7 to 10 days before your week.
- Sort items into two piles: brush and bulky.
- Measure pile size and keep each under 8 cubic yards.
- Place piles at the curb by 7 a.m. Monday of your week.
- Keep piles clear of cars, meters, mailboxes, and low branches.
- Take hazardous items to an HHW site or event.
- Need faster service or missed your week? Request out‑of‑cycle pickup or use a drop‑off center.
Getting the brush and bulky process right saves time and money, and it keeps your new street looking great. If you want more local homeowner tips or plan to buy or sell in the San Antonio area, connect with Cynthia Emerson for neighborhood‑savvy guidance and a smooth move.
FAQs
How often is brush and bulky pickup in San Antonio?
- Twice a year, with a door hanger notice about 7 to 10 days before your scheduled week.
Where and when should I set out items?
- Place piles within 8 feet of the curb by 7 a.m. Monday of your collection week, not in the alley.
What if I miss my collection week?
- Request an out‑of‑cycle pickup for a fee or take items to a Bulky Waste Collection Center or a Free Landfill Day event.
Can I put paint, batteries, or electronics in my pile?
- No. Household hazardous waste and many electronics must go to an HHW site or event.
What proof do I need at drop‑off centers?
- Photo ID and a recent CPS Energy bill showing payment of the city environmental fee.
What happens if I set out the wrong items or block access?
- The city may refuse pickup, charge extra collection fees, and issue fines under the solid‑waste code.
