Junk removal costs in Sacramento

Sacramento's household junk pickup has a season, and it closes in the fall. City appointments run February through October and stop being taken in mid- to late October. The reason is leaves. The same crews and trucks that haul junk also work leaf season, and leaf collection takes priority in November, December and January. During those months, the only junk pickup the city may offer is a fee-based one. Plan a fall garage cleanout early, or plan on February.

Each residential customer gets two junk appointments a year, and tenants renting a house or duplex can book too. The pile can be up to 4 by 4 by 9 feet. It can't go out more than 24 hours early, and setting it out early may get you fined. The crew expects it waiting by 6 a.m. Cancel by 5 p.m. two business days ahead, or the visit still counts as one of your two.

Some things never go in the junk pile. Paint, gas canisters and other hazardous waste go to a household hazardous waste facility. Dirt, rock and concrete aren't taken. Treated wood, like old fence posts and deck boards, goes to the Kiefer Landfill instead.

Appliances and electronics have their own track: two more appointments a year, and that program runs year-round, leaf season included. So the old fridge and the dead TV can still go in December.