SERVICES:

Downtown Waste Management

The central locations for solid waste and recycling help keep the downtown streetscape free of clutter, unpleasant odors, unwanted pests, and debris. The goal is to move all downtown compactors into enclosures in the coming years.

ACCESS

A key fob (electronic key) will grant you access to The dot Waste Room trash compactor. Key fobs are $10 each, limited to three per business.

If a key fob is lost, please call the Zero Waste Program Coordinator (during evenings and weekends, call the Police Department non-emergency line, as they can let you into the waste room temporarily). The cost of replacement is $25. Defective fobs will be replaced at no charge.

Link Center / Relevant Services / PDFs

Waste Management Guidelines

Downtown Waste Management Faqs

For additional questions, contact the Zero Water Coordinator at 248-546-2525 ext. 140

How do I sign up to use the compactor?

To access The dot Waste Room, you will need a key fob. Click here to register your business for key fobs. All other compactor areas use a 4-digit code. To obtain the code, please email zerowaste@ferndalemi.gov or call 248-336-4160.

How do I use the compactor?

Learn how to operate The dot's trash compactor by watching this video.

What are the hours of the waste area?

Any type of trash receptacle, including trash bags or containers, can be used to transport trash and recyclables, provided that it is leak-proof and no spillage occurs. All businesses will be responsible for the proper disposing of all trash and recycling.

What type of security is provided?

The compactor and recycling areas are under video surveillance by the Department of Public Works. The security cameras record all movements within the enclosure 24 hours a day. If a situation arises, the City will be able to review the tape to observe the incident in question.

What type of security is provided?

What if I lose my key fob?

If a key fob is lost, please call the Zero Waste Program Coordinator at 248-336-4160. During evenings and weekends, please call the Ferndale Police Department's non-emergency line at 248-541-3650, as they can let you into the waste room temporarily. The cost of replacement is $25.

What if I get to the enclosed compactor and the area is a mess?

Cleanliness of the compactor areas will be maintained by City staff. There is a 24-hour monitor of the area and we will review the tape to see who created the spillage. But, if you do see a mess, we ask that you please report it to SeeClickFix.

What if the compactor does not work?

If the compactor is not working properly, or if the area needs maintenance, please contact the Zero Waste Program Coordinator at 248-336-4160 or report it using the SeeClickFix app. If it is after hours, please call the Police Department’s non-emergency line 248-541-3650.

What do I do with bulk items?

The City does not provide collection of large bulk items within the Central Business District. Bulk items can be disposed of at the SOCRRA Troy drop off location at 995 Coolidge Hwy, Troy, MI. Drop off hours are from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. and the cost is $65 per ton or $40 per minimum drop off.

Unable to drop off those bulk items? Contact the city's solid-waste collection contractor, Cars Trucking (586-791-8450) to receive a quote for pickup.

What do I do if my business would like to recycle?

We are transitioning to include more recycling options for businesses in our Downtown district. More information on these options to come. Currently, businesses may use a roll-off recycling cart. If you do not have a recycling cart and are interested in obtaining one, please call 248-336-4160.

How do I dispose of my recycling?

All cardboard boxes must be broken down completely. Please remove and dispose of all packing materials. It is important to keep the dumpster lids closed to keep the cardboard dry. Roll-off carts can be used for other recyclable material. The following list includes acceptable and unacceptable items.‍

Acceptable Items
   - Paper (newspaper, envelopes, cartons, shredded paper, boxboard, etc)
   - Plastic (bottles, jugs, containers)
   - Metal (cans, aerosol, tin foil,)
   - Glass (bottles, jars, etc)‍

Unacceptable Items (must go in trash)
   - All food waste and food-soiled items
   - Napkins, wipes, paper towels
   - Plastic bags
   - Plastic wrap and wrappers
   - Rubber
   - Styrofoam
   - Medical waste
   - Chemicals (dry or liquid)
   - Wood items
   - Batteries or light bulbs
   - Electronics and cords‍

When does recycling get picked up?

If using a recycling cart, it must be rolled out the night prior to collection, which occurs Monday through Friday mornings.