PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Trash and recycling collection across Philadelphia has been suspended as of Tuesday due to a city worker strike involving AFSCME District Council 33, disrupting key municipal services and prompting emergency court actions.
The strike began at midnight on Monday and has led to a citywide stoppage of curbside sanitation services. Residents are now being directed to over 60 temporary trash drop-off sites open Monday to Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Recycling is only being accepted at six designated Sanitation Convenience Centers.
The City of Philadelphia has established a cap of eight bagged trash items per drop-off, with no loose waste allowed. Officials are urging residents to use the drop-off locations on their regular trash days. Sanitation services will remain in this modified state until further notice.
Key Points
- Curbside trash and recycling pickup suspended across Philadelphia due to city worker strike
- Over 60 trash drop-off sites and six recycling centers open with limited hours
- Emergency court orders mandate return of critical 911 and Water Department staff
Court orders issued July 1 require all 911 dispatch staff and essential Philadelphia Water Department personnel to resume full duties. The orders also restrict picketing at city sites, limiting demonstrations to eight people and requiring a minimum 10-foot distance from entrances.
Other city services have also been affected. Only 25 public pools remain open due to reduced maintenance staffing, though all spraygrounds are operating. Recreation centers have moved to shortened hours, while summer day camps continue under modified plans.
The strike has also impacted services like library operations, with temporary closures possible. The Fire Department continues to operate with reallocated personnel, and the Water Department has activated contingency staffing to maintain drinking water and wastewater services.
City officials are monitoring the situation and updating resources online. For sanitation services, drop-off locations and instructions are posted at phila.gov/sanitation.
A sweeping labor strike has disrupted trash pickup, pool access, and emergency response across Philadelphia.
