DeKalb County Suspends Trash and Recycling Services

DeKalb County, Georgia, January 26, 2026

DeKalb County, Georgia, has suspended trash and recycling pickups scheduled for January 25, due to severe winter weather conditions affecting the region. This decision prioritizes the safety of residents and sanitation workers as an ice storm impacts the Atlanta metropolitan area. The suspension aligns with similar measures taken by the City of Atlanta and Fulton County, with a state of emergency declared for 91 counties in response to Winter Storm Fern. The temporary halt in services highlights the critical nature of municipal functions amidst extreme weather events.

DeKalb County, Georgia

DeKalb County, Georgia, experienced significant disruption to its routine municipal services as trash and recycling pickups scheduled for Monday, January 25, 2026, were suspended due to prevailing severe winter weather conditions. This decision, made by the DeKalb County government, aimed to prioritize safety for both residents and sanitation workers amidst the hazardous environment created by the inclement weather.

The suspension on Monday was a direct response to an ongoing ice storm impacting the Atlanta metropolitan area, including DeKalb County. The Governor of Georgia had previously elevated a state of emergency to encompass 91 counties, including DeKalb, in anticipation of and response to this major weather event.

Impact on Sanitation Services

Residents whose regular trash and recycling collection day falls on Monday will experience a delay in service. This measure aligns with similar actions taken by neighboring jurisdictions, as the City of Atlanta and Fulton County also announced the suspension of their garbage and recycling pickups for Monday, January 25, 2026. The comprehensive nature of these suspensions underscores the widespread challenge presented by Winter Storm Fern across the region.

The immediate consequence for households is the temporary accumulation of waste, a minor inconvenience perhaps, yet one that touches the everyday lives of many. While a small detail in the larger scope of a winter storm, the reliability of such services is often a quiet bedrock of community life, highlighting how even the most ordinary functions can be momentarily brought to a halt by the forces of nature.

Winter Weather Context

The severe weather, identified as Winter Storm Fern 2026, has prompted broad advisories and preparedness efforts across Georgia. Experienced meteorologists have been tracking and communicating the trajectory and intensity of the storm, providing crucial information to the public and governmental agencies for proactive responses. Such events test the resilience of local infrastructure and community planning, calling for swift and clear communication to mitigate potential risks to public well-being.

DeKalb County’s Department of Watershed Management, which oversees critical infrastructure, often monitors trends such as seasonal impacts and wet weather events to inform their contingency and emergency response plans. This proactive approach is vital in a state like Georgia, which, despite its southern climate, is no stranger to the challenges posed by severe winter weather, necessitating robust emergency protocols to ensure public safety and minimize disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What municipal service was suspended in DeKalb County?

Trash and recycling pickups scheduled for Monday, January 25, 2026, were suspended in DeKalb County, Georgia.

When was the suspension announced?

The DeKalb County government announced the suspension of trash pickups on Monday, January 25, 2026.

What was the reason for the suspension?

The suspension was due to prevailing severe winter weather conditions, specifically an ice storm impacting the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Which other areas also suspended sanitation services on Monday?

The City of Atlanta and Fulton County also announced the suspension of their garbage and recycling pickups for Monday, January 25, 2026.

Was a state of emergency declared?

Yes, the Governor of Georgia had elevated a state of emergency to encompass 91 counties, including DeKalb, in anticipation of and response to this major weather event.

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Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.