Show All Answers

1. Can I lock my dumpster, what locks are recommended?

If you have the locking bar on the front of your dumpster you can lock it. You don't have to unlock it before pickup; the mechanisms have a counterbalance that unlocks automatically when the dumpster is inverted. Use locks that are short shaft. It doesn't have to be fancy but make sure that it will survive being banged around and the weather. If you have any questions call the Solid Waste Division at 360-279-4766.

2. Does the City have a low income rate for customers on Utilities?

Yes, you may come into the Utilities Department at City Hall to fill out the required application. 17% savings on water, sewer, and garbage (on a 20-gallon size can).

3. How do I dispose of large items?

Large items like furniture and mattresses can be self-hauled to the Island county dump (view Google Maps for directions) or call 360-279-4766 for a quote for Oak Harbor solid waste to pick up the items.

4. How do I start a Utility Account?

By coming into City Hall and signing up for services. An application card needs to be completed and a $25 administration fee paid. View the Dumpster and Rollcart Charges (PDF).

5. I want to sign up for Commercial Recycling.

For small-scale recycling, we offer a rollcart in two sizes 95 and 65 gallons free per dumpster and $8 for an additional rollcart. View the Commercial Recycling Request Form (PDF) for details. For a larger cardboard dumpster call Island Disposal at 360-678-5701, Tricounty Recycling, Inc at 360-707-0439, or Skagit River Steel and Recycling at 800-869-7097.

6. My dumpster hasn't been dumped yet, who do I call?

Depending on the situation if you're dumpster hasn't been dumped by 1:30 pm on your garbage day call 360-279-4530. There might be a problem with the truck or the driver. There are 6 drivers in the department and they all have their own pace. Please be patient.

7. My dumpster stinks! How do I get it cleaned?

Call Utilities at 360-279-4530 to set up a cleaning. It costs $45 for most cases.

8. What do I do if my dumpster is damaged?

Call 360-279-4766 for repairs. It will be evaluated by wear and tear or neglect.

9. What is your holiday schedule?

On dumpsters, we will pick up on all holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas if they fall on a weekday. View our normal holiday schedule (PDF).

10. What method of payment can I use to pay my Utility bill?

We accept cash, check, debit cards, credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), and "direct debit" payments. You can sign up for the "direct debit" payment option by filling out the enrollment form in the Utilities Department. Credit Card payments can be made in person or through the City of Oak Harbor website.

11. Where can I dispose of household chemicals?

Visit the Island County Solid Waste website for information on drop-off sites.

12. Where can I recycle used oil?

Most of the City's auto parts stores will recycle used oil or you can visit the Island County Solid Waste website for additional drop-off sites.

13. Where do I pay my Utility Bill?

The payment can be placed in the "drop box" outside City Hall, pay in person in the utility office, or mailed. Credit card payments(VISA or Mastercard) can be made over the telephone by calling 360-279-4530 or through the City of Oak Harbor website. A direct debit pay service is available. To sign up for direct debit -fill out the form in the Utilities department and attach a canceled check.

14. Who do I call?

Oak Harbor utility department at 360-279-4530. They will answer questions or direct you accordingly.

15. Why are the drivers taking pictures of our dumpster?

The drivers are documenting extra trash, damage, or problems.