Trash pickup delays linger in parts of DC weeks after snowstorm

WASHINGTON (7News) — Two weeks after a major snowstorm moved through the District, some neighborhoods are still dealing with a frustrating aftermath: trash that hasn’t been picked up.

In parts of Ward 1, residents say trash and recycling collections have been missed for two consecutive weeks, leaving overflowing bins and loose bags piling up in alleys behind homes and apartment buildings.

“It’s building up. It’s starting to become a mess,” said Alex Madison, a Ward 1 resident. “A lot of people leave their trash in the back, that’s certainly where my building leaves their trash. It’s not gotten picked up.”

Residents say icy conditions in narrow alleys are preventing garbage trucks from getting through. While crews have cleared some snow, a hardened layer of ice — known by the city as “snowcrete” — still covers many alleyways, making them unsafe and difficult to access.

The D.C. Department of Public Works confirms those conditions have forced a shift in how trash is being collected. Instead of trucks driving through alleys, DPW says crews are now relying on manual pickup in many locations.

SEE ALSO | DC Ward 8 residents react to unplowed streets nearly 2 weeks after storm

Some residents said that’s led to confusion and frustration. Several told 7News they received notices from DPW indicating their trash had been collected — even though it was still sitting behind their homes.

Photo shows trash in D.C. was not collected due to snow on Feb. 9, 2026. (Mike Rudd/7News)

Madison says the delays are already creating secondary problems.

“Some of the trash cans are fallen over — obviously that brings rats,” Madison said. “Frustrating for sure. And it’s not the trash guys’ fault. It’s the fault of them not being able to access these alleys.”

DPW says crews are now using Bobcat tractors to help clear alleyways, but officials acknowledge the process is new and taking longer than expected. The agency says it’s continuing to work through affected areas as conditions allow.

Residents are urged to keep trash secured and monitor DPW updates as cleanup efforts continue, and use the city’s 311 system to report ongoing issues.