How to get rid of a refrigerator in Charlotte, NC

Appliances are scheduled bulky waste in Charlotte. Book through 311, the CLT+ app or online. The City's bulky-item video says to empty appliances, remove the door, and tape an X over any glass.

Last checked against the official City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services website. See sources.

Cost
No fee listed
How
Schedule via 311, CLT+ app or online
Prep
Empty it, remove the door, tape an X on glass

Option 1: City pickup (Scheduled bulky waste collection)

Who can use it

  • You must currently receive garbage collection from the City of Charlotte.

How to book

  1. Call 311 (704-336-7600), use the CLT+ app, or request online.
  2. To cancel or change a request, call 311 by noon on the business day before your pickup.
  3. The City links a bulky item eligibility list (PDF) from its Collection Guidelines page.

Refrigerator rules

  • Appliances are bulky waste and must be scheduled.
  • Per the City's bulky collection tips video: empty the appliance, remove the door, and place tape in an X shape on glass.
  • The City notes you may see two different trucks collecting different types of bulky items.

Setting it out

  • Place items at the curb no later than 6 a.m. on your scheduled day and no sooner than the day before.
  • Leave 3 feet between items.
  • Items placed at the curb without scheduling will not be collected.

Fees and limits

  • The City's Collection Guidelines page does not list a fee for scheduled bulky collection.

Option 2: Drop it off yourself

We did not find an official public drop-off site for this item. Ask a private hauler, or check the city's page listed under Sources.

Option 3: Donate or give it away

  • Habitat for Humanity ReStores generally want household appliances that are less than 10 years old, in good working order and complete. Rules vary by store; find yours with the ReStore locator.

Donation rules are set by each charity and can change. Call before you load up.

What we could not confirm

  • We did not verify Mecklenburg County drop-off facility details for these items, so they are not listed here.

Common questions

Will Charlotte take a refrigerator?
Yes, as scheduled bulky waste.
Do I need to remove the door?
Yes, the City's bulky tips say to remove the door.

Sources

Last checked Oct 21, 2026. We read each page below on that date.

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