Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start trash service, report a missed pick-up or schedule a cart repair/replacement?

To determine service day, schedule a cart repair/replacement, schedule a bulk pick-up or to report a missed pick-up, please contact Waste Management at 1-800-800-5804. To report unresolved service issues, please contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800. For resale homes, trash service transfers automatically to the new resident.

Trash & Recycling Service

Why doesn't The Woodlands spray for mosquitoes?

The Woodlands Township does not conduct mosquito spraying because this service is managed at the county level by either Montgomery County or Harris County, depending on your village. The Township’s role is focused on prevention education and supporting mosquito surveillance efforts to help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. We work to keep residents informed through public outreach, educational materials and coordination with local health agencies.

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What happens with my trash service during weather emergencies, i.e. tropical storms, flooding, etc?

During weather emergencies such as tropical storms or flooding, The Woodlands Township works closely with Waste Management to monitor conditions and assess whether it is safe and feasible to proceed with scheduled trash and recycling collection. If severe weather prevents service, the Township will post updates and alternate collection schedules on its website and social media channels. Many factors affect the ability to provide service during these events, including road accessibility, staff availability, and access to disposal facilities. While every effort is made to avoid service interruptions, safety is the top priority.

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What is the secret to achieving a lush landscape in the Gulf Coast climate?

Healthy soil is the foundation of a beautiful, resilient landscape:

  • Add organic matter with compost to improve soil and conserve water.
  • Select native and well-adapted plants.
  • Follow-up with routine maintenance, foregoing pesticides and applying organic fertilizer sparingly.

What do I do with oversize items that do not fit in my 96-gallon cart?

Call Waste Management Customer Service at 800-800-5804 to schedule a bulky trash pick-up.

What is bulky waste?

Bulky waste is defined as items too large to fit in your trash cart with the lid closed if it was empty. It includes furniture and appliances but not construction debris. Refrigerators must be certified free of freon to be picked up. Is it really a treasure - a usable item that could be donated for reuse? Check out our Donation Guide(PDF, 289KB), many organizations provide free pick-up.

Bulky Oversized Collection

What do I do with excess trash?

Purchase an extra service tag for each additional bag of household trash. Bags must be under 40 lbs. No hazardous waste / household chemicals, please. Tags can be purchased for $2.00 each at The Woodlands Township offices and at customer service desks at Kroger (Cochran's Crossing, Alden Bridge and Sterling Ridge locations). Each bag of extra trash must have a tag and should weigh under 40 pounds.

What items get picked up curbside for recycling?

Paper (newspaper and inserts, junk mail, white and mixed office paper); corrugated cardboard and paperboard; aluminum and tin food containers; juice, soup and milk cartons; plastics #1 –5, 7; glass bottles and jars; and telephone books.

Curbside Collection Guidelines

Where are the local recycling centers? What are their hours?

There are several disposal and recycling facilities available in and around The Woodlands for items that cannot be placed in curbside carts. The Woodlands Recycling Center is available exclusively to residents of The Woodlands and accepts a variety of recyclables. Additional options include Montgomery County and Harris County collection facilities, as well as other regional sites that handle items such as electronics, hazardous waste and bulk materials.

Disposal & Recycling Facilities

Where can I recycle other items that are not accepted at the recycling centers?

For information on where to recycle items from eyeglasses to concrete and your father's old brown suit, please see the Recycle More Guide(PDF, 198KB) and the Donation Guide(PDF, 289KB).