Streets and Sanitation Service Updates as of 6/3/2020

The Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) remains committed to keeping both residents and our staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are following the Chicago Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) citywide guidance around social distancing requirements, which were put in place in March.  As the City moves to phase 3 of the reopening plan, all DSS services have continued. 

For more information on DSS visit chicago.gov/dss.  For questions regarding COVID-19 visit Chicago.gov/coronavirus.

Streets and Sanitation Services

Forestry – The Bureau of Forestry has been and will continue to care and maintain the City’s over 500,000 trees by trimming, removing, and treating them, as well as planting new trees.

Black Garbage Carts – Heavy duty plastic garbage carts with tight fitted lids are supplied free to single-family residences and apartment buildings of four units or less and help decrease the rat population in Chicago. Missing or damaged carts have been replaced free of charge during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this will continue in phase 3 of the reopening. Residents can call 311 or submit a request online for a replacement garbage cart at www.311.chicago.gov.

Garbage – Garbage removal is an essential service and has continued through during the COVID-19 pandemic.  We have worked to ensure sanitation workers have CDPH guidance on social distancing and handwashing.  We are grateful for our Sanitation workers as they continue to work to keep our city clean and safe.

Rodent Control – Our teams have continued efforts to combat rodents through containerization and rodenticide continues to keep Chicago healthy throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Street Sweeping – The Department will continue to sweep in all 50 wards according to the pre-set schedule which can be found at www.chicago.gov/sweepertracker.  Residents are reminded to check for bright orange signs posted in advance announcing temporary parking restrictions during street sweeping season. Some streets also have permanently posted signs that specify a once-per-week period when parking is prohibited for street sweeping during the season.  While enforcement of postings was on hold during the State’s stay at home order, enforcement will begin July 1^st.  

Towing –Towing for emergency situations where there is a public safety risk will continue as has been done throughout the COVID-19 response.