The City of Somerset recently added an automated garbage truck to improve efficiency, safety, and consistency in trash collection. Because this truck uses a mechanical arm to lift and empty garbage cans, proper can placement is essential to ensure your trash is collected without delay.
If cans are placed incorrectly, the truck may not be able to safely service them. Please follow the guidelines below to help keep routes running smoothly for everyone.
Give your can room to work: The 3-foot rule
Clearance is the most important factor for automated pickup.
- Place your garbage can at least 3 feet away from any object, including:
- Other garbage or recycling cans
- Parked vehicles
- Mailboxes
- Fire hydrants
- Utility poles or signposts
- If you have more than one can, leave 3 feet of space between each can.
Helpful tip: If you can comfortably walk between the can and nearby objects, the truck’s arm likely has enough room to operate.
Check the lid before collection
Automated trucks lift and empty cans quickly, so proper lid placement helps prevent spills.
- Lids should not be open more than 6 inches. Overfilled cans may spill trash before reaching the truck.
- Do not place bags, boxes, or loose items on top of the lid. The mechanical arm cannot secure these items, and they may fall into the street.
Face the can the right way
For the truck to lift your can correctly, orientation matters.
- Wheels and handles should face your house
- The opening of the can should face the street
This allows the lid to open properly when the can is lifted and tipped.
Place cans on level ground at the curb
- Set cans on a flat, stable surface at the curb or edge of the street.
- Avoid placing cans on uneven ground, as they may tip over during pickup.
Also, be sure to check above the can:
- Keep the area free of low-hanging tree branches or overhead power lines, which can interfere with the truck’s lifting arm.
Important reminder about city-issued cans
- Only city-issued garbage cans will be collected.
- Items placed on the ground will not be picked up automatically.
- If you have items outside the can, the city can arrange pickup for a fee.
- Residents receive one free city-issued can. Residents may request an additional city-issued container for a $60 deposit and a $5 monthly fee per container.
Thank you for helping keep Somerset beautiful!
These guidelines help protect sanitation workers, reduce litter, and ensure efficient service for all residents. We appreciate your cooperation as we roll out this new automated system and continue improving city services.
If you have questions or need assistance, please call the City of Somerset Sanitation Department at 606.679.1107 or email sanitation@cityofsomerset.com.
