OKEECHOBEE — Waste Management (WM) will start using the new compressed natural gas trucks to collect waste in Okeechobee County on March 3.

These trucks will use an automatic lifting arm to service carts, making the collection process more efficient and safer.

Trash (household waste) collection days will not change. Trash must be placed inside the green carts provided by WM, with the lids closed. Other containers will not be serviced. 

Yard waste carts  will be according to the new map. Items such as small branches, grass clippings and palm fronds must be placed inside the cart. The lid does not have to be closed.

Up to 4 cubic yards of bulk yard waste -- items too large to fit in the gray carts -- will be collected  once a week. Homeowners should call to ask for this service. 

Bulk trash such as refrigerators, freezers, grills, matresses and other items too large to fit in the green carts will also be collected, up to 4 cubic yards per week. Homeowners should call to ask for this service.

Remember to place carts at least 3 feet apart and at least 3 feet away from any obstacles such as mail boxes, trees, etc., to allow the automatic arm to lift and empty the carts.

WM asks that residents place carts at the curb the night before or no later than 6 a.m. on collection day.

For more information, call WM at 863-763-4818.

There will be no collection on Thanksgiving or Christmas. On those holiday weeks, collection will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week.