Metro Detroit residents face weeks-long trash pickup delays

Trash collectors urge patience

DETROIT – Metro Detroit’s trash problem is growing as piles of garbage grow as residents wait for pickup.

Some people said they’ve been waiting more than three weeks and flies, maggots and large pests are moving into their neighborhoods.

Related: Trash collectors urge patience as they work through Metro Detroit backlog

Local 4 has heard about the problem from viewers in Ann Arbor, Howell, Clinton Township, Waterford Township, Clarkston, Sherwood Forest, and other cities and townships.

The first issues started when Priority Waste took over GLF Waste’s customers -- and the backlog was big. GLF Waste -- which had the contract to pick up trash in many communities all over the area -- sold its residential arm of the company to Priority Waste, a change that was official on July 1.

Priority Waste said they are keeping track of the trash across Metro Detroit that has and hasn’t been picked up. They said the delays are expected to get smaller as they get through their backlog.

If you’re still seeing trash on the curb and wondering when your house will get picked up, Local 4 has been told the majority of the trucks are being repaired and are getting back on the road. Trash pickup is expected to happen this week and if it doesn’t, residents are urged to contact Priority Waste immediately to let them know where so they can get a crew out there to take care of the problem.

You can contact Priority on its official website.


About the Authors

Hank Winchester is Local 4’s Consumer Investigative Reporter and the head of WDIV’s “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit. Hank works to solve consumer complaints, reveal important recalls and track down thieves who have ripped off people in our community.

Dane Kelly is a digital producer who has been covering various Michigan news stories since 2017.

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