Spring cleaning: Rhinelander announces return of free city-wide clean-up event

As the Northwoods gears up for summer, the City of Rhinelander is inviting residents to clear out the clutter. City officials have announced the dates for the upcoming Free City-Wide Clean-Up, a two-day event designed to help locals dispose of household bulk items at no cost.
The initiative, hosted at the City Streets Department, aims to keep the city’s neighborhoods tidy by providing a centralized disposal point for items that typically don’t fit in weekly trash bins.
The cleanup is scheduled for mid-May, offering both weekday and weekend windows for maximum convenience:
Friday, May 15: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 16: 7 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Residents should note that there will be no curbside pick-up for this event. All materials must be transported to the collection site located at 644 Washington St. To ensure a smooth experience, the site will be organized in a loop format, with city staff on hand to direct traffic and manage the flow of vehicles.
The event is strictly limited to current City of Rhinelander residents. To keep the lines moving and ensure resources are used fairly, there is a limit of one visit per resident.
Participants must bring proof of residency to enter the site. Accepted documents include:
• Current utility bills
• Wisconsin ID or Driver’s License
• Bank statements
• Valid lease agreements
What you can (and can’t) bring
While the event is a great opportunity to purge old furniture and household goods, there are specific guidelines on what will be accepted.
Residents are encouraged to bring a variety of non-food household waste, including clothing, small tools, housewares, dishes, and bedding. The site will also accept larger furniture items like end tables, chairs, desks, chests, beds, sofas, and mattresses. Small appliances that do not contain Freon, such as toasters, hair dryers, lamps, radios, and plug-in tools, are also eligible for drop-off.
However, several items are strictly prohibited from the collection. Staff will not accept electronics, including televisions, computers, or batteries, nor will they take fluorescent bulbs or tires. General yard waste like leaves and brush is excluded, as are vehicle parts and fluids. Additionally, any appliances containing Freon (such as refrigerators or AC units) and large volumes of construction or demolition material—including decking and shingles—must be disposed of elsewhere.
Note: Fluorescent bulbs and electronics are strictly prohibited and will not be accepted at this location.
For residents with specific questions regarding the event’s logistics, ontact City Clerk Austyn Zarda at 715-365-8600 ext. #1 or via email at azarda@rhinelanderwi.us.
Detailed inquiries regarding specific item eligibility can be directed to Justin Ernst at 715-362-2728.