MISSION STATEMENT
The Department of Public Works provides efficient, cost-effective, high-quality services relative to the operations, maintenance, planning, construction and engineering of public works infrastructure and waste management for the City of Providence.
Daily Street Closures: Daily Traffic Restrictions updated 09/01/2026
The Department of Public Works staff is responsible for the maintenance of Providence’s infrastructure. The Department is comprised of seven divisions that include Administration; Engineering, Traffic, Parking, Highway, Sewer, and Environmental. Click on the link below for more information about the DPW Division.
REPORTS
2025 MS4 Annual Report Draft
TRASH + RECYCLING
Missed Pick-Up: Your carts should be moved to the curb the night before your collection day or no later than 5:30 a.m. on collection day. If your carts were out and did not get picked up, call Waste Management at (800) 972-4545 to schedule a next-day collection.
Cart Replacement: Complete a cart request form, if your cart needs to be repaired or replaced.
Old Cart Removal: If you have old trash or recycling carts that need to be removed, dial 3-1-1 or submit a request on 3-1-1’s website.
Recycling Guide: Learn about Providence’s residential curbside recycling program and what goes in your recycling cart.
Bulky & Tricky Waste Removal
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- Mattresses: Schedule a collection with Waste Management by using this form or calling (800) 972-4545 (payment required), or drop off for free at DPW (behind 700 Allens Ave) any Saturday from 7:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
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Note: Only two items will be accepted per week for DPW’s mattress drop off.
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- Bulky Waste: Schedule a free collection with Waste Management by using this form or calling (800) 972-4545.
- Mattresses: Schedule a collection with Waste Management by using this form or calling (800) 972-4545 (payment required), or drop off for free at DPW (behind 700 Allens Ave) any Saturday from 7:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
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- Electronic Waste: Schedule a free collection with Waste Management by using this form or calling (800) 972-4545, or drop off for free at DPW (behind 700 Allens Ave) any Saturday from 7:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
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- Hazardous Waste: Drop off toxic and flammable materials like mercury devices, oil, and pesticides for free at one of RIRRC’s eco-depot events.
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- Leaves & Yard Waste: Between mid-April and December, leave at curb in brown bags or a container marked “yard waste” on your regular trash pickup day. Branches must be shorter than 4 feet and bundled.
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- Christmas Trees: Remove lights and tinsel and leave at curb during the first three full weeks of January.
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- Other Tricky Items: Learn how to dispose of other tricky items here.






