Getting rid of bulky items in Chicago, IL
Last checked: 2026-10-24
Short answer: Chicago's Department of Streets and Sanitation serves single-family homes and buildings of four units or fewer. Request a Bulky Item Pick Up through 311 before putting out furniture, mattresses, or major appliances.
Get a junk removal quote · Machine-readable data (JSON)
Rules change. Confirm with the city before setting anything out.
Curbside pickup rules
- City service covers single-family homes and apartment buildings of four units or less; larger buildings need private collection.
- The sanitation code says to arrange a bulk pick-up with your ward's Streets and Sanitation superintendent before putting out any large item or extra load.
- Always remove doors or lids from discarded refrigerators and freezers.
- Bulky Item Pick Up is not for TVs or computer equipment.
How to book
- CHI311: dial 311 (or 312-744-5000), use 311.chicago.gov, or the CHI311 app, and request Bulky Item Pick Up.
- Exact set-out timing is not published on the pages reviewed; follow the instructions given with your 311 request.
Item limits
- No item limit is published on the City pages reviewed. Confirm with 311 or your ward office for large cleanouts.
Fees
- The City's recycling guide describes Bulky Item Pick Up as free. Confirm with 311.
Mattress recycling / state bans
- Mattresses are accepted through Bulky Item Pick Up per the City's recycling guide. The City pages reviewed do not mention an Illinois mattress recycling requirement; confirm with the City.
- TVs and computer equipment cannot go in Bulky Item Pick Up; recycle at the HCCRF.
Drop-off sites
- Household Chemicals & Computer Recycling Facility (HCCRF), 1150 N. North Branch St.: Tue 7 a.m.-12 p.m., Thu 2-7 p.m., first Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Residential only. Accepts electronics and household chemicals. Does NOT accept appliances, air conditioners, refrigerants, or tires.
- No municipal furniture/mattress drop-off is listed on the pages reviewed.
FAQ
How do I book bulky item pickup in Chicago?
CHI311: dial 311 (or 312-744-5000), use 311.chicago.gov, or the CHI311 app, and request Bulky Item Pick Up. Exact set-out timing is not published on the pages reviewed; follow the instructions given with your 311 request.
Is bulky item pickup free in Chicago?
The City's recycling guide describes Bulky Item Pick Up as free. Confirm with 311.
Who is eligible for city bulky pickup in Chicago?
City service covers single-family homes and apartment buildings of four units or less; larger buildings need private collection.
Paid option: junk removal
Not eligible for city pickup (for example, a larger apartment building) or need it gone sooner? A private junk removal service can haul items from inside your home for a fee. [Partner link not yet active]
Disclosure: Free official options are always listed first. If a paid-removal link appears, it may be an affiliate link and we may earn a commission at no cost to you. It never changes what we recommend.