Dallas Sanitation Services will phase out alley trash and recycling pickup for nearly 26,000 households next year, city officials say, sparking a backlash. An online petition has attracted more than 4,000 signatures in just a few days, urging city leaders to reverse the decision.
Sanitation Director Cliff Gillespie says the move prioritizes safety, cost efficiency and speed. He contends that automated curbside collection can service roughly 233 homes per hour—nearly double the rate in alleys—and reduces equipment damage and worker injury risks.
The city previously briefed council members in June 2024 on plans to begin phasing out service in narrower and dead-end alleys starting January 2026.
Opponents caution that elderly and disabled residents, especially in older neighborhoods built around alley access, will be disproportionately affected. One 91‑year‑old petition signer said she can’t move trash bins to the curb, and another noted homes without front‑of‑house access would face severe hardship.
Community pushback previously stalled similar efforts in mid‑2024, prompting a pause for further engagement .
Gillespie remains undeterred, citing city code that grants him authority to change service without council approval. Residents, however, are building pressure through petitions and calls for more input from elected officials.
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