DeKalb County launches SWEEP beautification services to promote cleaner public spaces

DEKALB COUNTY, GA, – The DeKalb County Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM) is launching its Fall 2026 Solid Waste Environmental Enhancement Program (SWEEP) in October, a comprehensive initiative designed to enhance communities, promote responsible waste management, and advance environmental stewardship throughout DeKalb County.

The month-long initiative features free residential bulky item collection, a free paper shredding event, and targeted beautification services – providing residents with additional opportunities to responsibly dispose of unwanted materials while supporting cleaner public spaces and healthier communities.

“SWEEP represents our continued investment in the communities we serve,” said DSWM Director Eugene McKinnie. “By combining responsible waste management with environmental enhancement and beautification efforts, we are strengthening our commitment to cleaner neighborhoods, improved public spaces, an enhanced quality of life for DeKalb residents, and a more sustainable DeKalb.”

Free Residential Bulky Item Collection:

Throughout October, residents within DSWM’s service area will receive free bulky item collection. Residents can dispose of eligible household items including furniture, appliances and electronics.

Eligible items must be placed at the curb on Thursday of residents’ week of service. Collection will occur on designated Fridays and Saturdays, based on residents’ regular collection day as follows:

·     Monday customers:         Oct. 2 and 3

·     Tuesday customers:        Oct. 9 and 10

·     Wednesday customers:   Oct. 16 and 17

·     Thursday customers:       Oct. 23 and 24

View the program’s residential bulky item collection flyer here.  

Beautification Services:

Throughout October, DSWM’s Beautification Services team will conduct targeted mowing, illegal dumping cleanup and litter abatement in predetermined areas of unincorporated DeKalb.

These efforts are designed to improve public spaces, address environmental concerns, and complement the department’s broader solid waste management community enhancement initiatives.

View the program’s Beautification Services flyer here.

Free Paper Shredding Event: 

A free paper shredding event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Central Transfer Station, 3720 Leroy Scott Drive, Decatur, GA.

DeKalb County residents can bring up to 10 standard-size boxes of documents per vehicle for secure shredding. Proof of DeKalb County residency is required. Commercial participation is not permitted. Shredding services will be provided by A1 Shredding & Recycling.

View the program’s paper shredding event flyer here.

For more information on the program, visit dekalbsolidwaste.com, or contact DSWM’s Customer Experience team at solidwaste@dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-294-2900.

View the program’s frequently asked questions here.