Bismarck, N.D. – The City of Bismarck is asking residents to take greater care in how they set out their garbage, as improperly placed items are slowing down daily collection routes, city officials reported Thursday night.
In a social media post made late June 13, the city’s Public Works Department said its crews are “encountering more and more” situations where loose items are left on top of garbage cans or outside them entirely — a practice that hampers efficiency and leaves debris uncollected.
“To help ensure we can provide the best and most efficient service for our community, you must place all items inside your furnished City of Bismarck can and all bags must be tied,” the statement read.
Crews emphasized that items left on top of cans often fall off when the containers are lifted, and any fallen materials will not be collected. Officials reminded residents that only the provided city cans should be used for disposal, and that overfilling or placing unbagged items outside the can violates collection guidelines.
City officials are encouraging residents to review Bismarck’s garbage collection policies, which can be found on the city’s website at bismarcknd.gov/2200/Garbage. Brochures detailing the 2025 collection schedule and rules were also mailed out earlier this year.
The message comes as the city continues efforts to streamline services and maintain clean, safe neighborhoods.
