The City of Temple is updating how we collect brush and bulky items to make service run smoother.

Starting July 18, brush and bulky item collection will no longer follow a twice-monthly schedule. Instead, you'll need to call and schedule a pickup. City trucks will begin their first scheduled pickups the week of August 4. If you still have items after the citywide sweep, this new system is how to get them collected. To see where the contractor is currently picking up, visit templetx.gov/solidwaste.

Here's what you need to know: 

• No more automatic biweekly pickups of brush and bulky items.
• Call 254-298-5000 to schedule a pickup.
• Each calendar quarter, you get one free brush pickup and one free bulky item pickup up to 6 cubic yards (about the size of a truck bed).
• If your pile is over 6 cubic yards but under 12 cubic yards, a $65 fee will be added to your utility bill.
• Anything over 12 cubic yards must either be placed in a roll-off container or hauled by an outside party. To avoid this, we recommend measuring beforehand.
  • You can drop off items year-round at the Solid Waste Complex or landfill (bring your utility bill).
• Piles put out without a request or with ineligible materials won't be collected.
• Brush piles and bulky item piles must continue to follow the placement and clearance guidelines to be eligible for pickup. 
• Need to cancel? Do so at least a week in advance to keep your pickup credit

Why the change?
Even though the process and frequency is changing, this service is still included in your regular flat-rate garbage fee for all Temple residents. This new system makes routes more efficient, helps crews check for proper materials, and ensures the service is used as intended.

Collection requests can be made by calling the Customer Care Department at 254.298.5000 during regular business hours.