Rochester Introduces smart refuse collection system and asks residents to follow new guidelines to improve safety, efficiency, and reliability across the city

Rochester, New York – The City of Rochester is introducing a new era of refuse and recycling collection by using smart technology to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability across the city. Officials are asking residents to take a few simple steps when placing their garbage and recycling containers at the curb to help the upgraded system operate smoothly.

The changes are part of Rochester’s continued investment in Smart City technology. Every refuse and recycling collection truck has now been equipped with new tools that provide Environmental Service Operators with real-time route information, navigation assistance, service updates, and the ability to record collection issues while working in the field.

After more than a year of testing and implementation, the technology is now fully in use citywide. The system is designed to create more efficient collection routes, improve employee safety, reduce unnecessary costs, and provide better service for residents.

City officials said the technology is already helping crews work differently, meaning some residents may notice changes in when their garbage or recycling is collected. Because routes have been adjusted and improved, collection times may not be the same as they were in previous months.

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“Small changes by residents can make a big difference,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “Our new technology is helping us build a smarter, safer, and more efficient collection system, but it works best when everyone does their part. By placing refuse and recycling containers correctly and having them out on time, residents help keep collections moving smoothly while improving safety for our employees.”

The City is reminding residents that containers should be placed at the curb by 6:30 a.m. on their scheduled collection day. Officials also recommend putting containers out the night before to make sure they are ready when collection crews arrive.

Residents are also asked to leave enough space between containers and nearby objects. Refuse and recycling bins should have at least three feet of separation from each other and should be kept away from parked vehicles, trees, fences, utility poles, and other obstacles that could interfere with the truck’s automated collection system.

Another important reminder involves the position of the containers. The City said residents should place containers with the handles facing toward the house. This allows the truck’s automated arm to safely grab and empty the containers while reducing risks for both workers and nearby property.

The City is also reminding households to use the correct containers when sorting their waste. The green container should be used for regular refuse, while the blue container is reserved for recyclable materials.

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Officials said cooperation from residents is an important part of making the new collection system successful. Even small mistakes, such as placing bins too close together or blocking access, can slow down routes and create safety concerns for collection crews.

Along with improving refuse services, Rochester is expanding its Environmental Services team and is currently looking for qualified Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) drivers. The City is encouraging interested applicants to explore career opportunities and join the department responsible for keeping neighborhoods clean and operating essential services.

Residents who want additional information about refuse and recycling collection can visit www.CityofRochester.gov/Refuse-and-Recycling or contact 311 for assistance. Those interested in CDL driver positions can learn more and apply at www.CityofRochester.gov/CDL.