Choosing a Dumpster Size
Since most collection is done weekly, we base all of our estimates on the amount of garbage generated per week.
Estimating non-compacted garbage and recycling
Divide the number of residential units by 10 to get the cubic yards of weekly garbage service. For recycling, you will need the same amount of cubic yards as garbage, but recycling will vary from building to building. Learn about food composting for building owners and managers.
See information on dumpster dimensions.
Estimating compacted garbage
If you have a compaction system, divide the number of cubic yards by 4 to get the number of compacted cubic yards most compactors will achieve. The building with 4 cubic yards of garbage would have 1 cubic yard of compacted garbage.
New building projects
For help in planning space and estimating sizes and location of garbage or apartment recycling containers inside new building projects, contact Liz Kain at liz.kain@seattle.gov or (206) 684-4166.
Related links
Recycling for Apartment Owners
Food & Yard Waste for Apartment Owners