News Summary
Indianapolis residents must exchange their old trash carts for new gray ones as part of a switch to Lakeshore Recycling Systems for waste collection. This program starts on October 6 and aims to enhance waste services and introduce curbside recycling by 2028. Residents in certain districts will be first to receive new carts, and details on the collection process have been provided. The transition is free and part of efforts to improve efficiency in waste management across the city.
Indianapolis to Swap Trash Carts as City Transitions Waste Services to Lakeshore Recycling Systems
Starting October 6, residents of Indianapolis who currently use private waste collection services will need to exchange their existing trash carts for new ones. This change is part of a new waste management contract with Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS), an Illinois-based company, which will assume responsibility for trash pickup routes beginning January 1, 2026. The transition aims to improve waste collection services across the city and introduce curbside recycling for all residents by 2028.
Details of the Cart Replacement Program
Residents serviced by private waste vendors, specifically by Waste Management or Republic Services, will receive new gray trash carts labeled with the city of Indianapolis’ name. The replacement process will commence with residents in Districts 1 and 6, which cover the far northwest side and parts of the far east and southeast sides of Indianapolis. Those living in other districts will follow in subsequent phases.
Residents already using gray carts provided by the city’s Department of Public Works (DPW) will not need to participate in the exchange and can continue using their current carts without interruption. For households receiving new carts, they should start using the gray carts immediately for all household waste upon receipt. The carts will come with instructions, including a QR code linking to more information.
Collection Process and Logistics
Once residents receive their new gray carts, they are instructed to empty their old bins and place them on the curb during their next scheduled waste collection day. These old carts will be collected over the following weeks. During this period, households with more than one trash cart should leave only one empty cart at the curb for exchange. Additional carts can still be used but should not be left empty at the collection site during the exchange process.
The exchange of existing green and blue carts for gray carts is being offered free of charge. This program is designed to minimize disruption and is not related to property taxes or the city’s annual $32 solid waste user fee, which funds waste collection services.
Additional Cart Options and Service Details
Residents who wish to purchase an extra trash cart can do so for $65 through RequestIndy or by contacting the Mayor’s Action Center. It is important to note that once Lakeshore Recycling Systems takes over in 2026, residents will keep their current pickup days. However, pickup times may vary depending on route adjustments by the new contractor.
Future Recycling Services and Customer Support
LRS is expected to introduce curbside recycling to all Indianapolis households starting in 2028. Additionally, subscription-based recycling services will be available next year at a cost of $9 per month. Residents experiencing issues with waste collection are advised to contact the Mayor’s Action Center at 317-327-4622 for assistance.
Background and Purpose of the Transition
The contract with Lakeshore Recycling Systems is part of a broader effort to address ongoing challenges with waste pickup. The transition aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of waste collection services in Indianapolis, culminating decades-long efforts to upgrade city waste management operations.
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Additional Resources
- Indianapolis Star: Trash Cans Replacement
- WRTV: New Trash Carts for Indianapolis Residents
- Recycling Today: Indianapolis Solid Waste Contract
- WTHR: Indianapolis New Trash Vendor Announcement
- WISH TV: Indianapolis Residential Trash Services 2026
- Wikipedia: Trash Collection
- Google Search: Indianapolis Trash Services
- Google Scholar: Indianapolis Waste Management
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waste Management
- Google News: Indianapolis Trash News
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
