Big changes are in store for Madison County, Madison and Huntsville recycling customers.

Recycling Alliance of North Alabama will take over recycling services on Aug. 1. The biggest changes will be in scheduling and the type of receptacle that will be used to handle the waste.

Here’s what you need to know:

What’s happening?

Residents in Madison city, Madison County and Huntsville will be moved over to RANA services at the start of August. In addition to the current areas already receiving recycling, the program will be expanded to some 25,000 previously unserved homes, including single-family homes in Gurley, Owens Cross Roads and Triana.

Biggest changes

Instead of the current weekly pickup, RANA services will be provided once a month. To accommodate the change, RANA is providing larger 95-gallon recycling carts, similar to wheeled trash cans, to replace the smaller 18-gallon blue bins that are currently used.

Will I be charged for the new program?

No. Like the old recycling program, there is no charge for customers.

How do I get a cart?

To get your free cart, you must sign up by June 28 to have your recycling collected in August. Signup is required even if you’re already receiving recycling services.

Is there a number I can call to sign up?

Yes. You can call 256-801-2278 to enroll.

When will I receive my cart?

Cart delivery will start in mid-July.

What happens if I miss the date?

You can still get your recycling collected but will have to wait another month for pickup.

When will my recycling be picked up?

Pick-up schedules will be announced after the initial sign-up phase. Holiday schedules will be released at that time as well.

What will – and won’t be collected?

RANA will accept No. 1 and No. 2 narrow-neck plastic bottles, aluminum and steel bi-metal cans, clean paper products, and flattened cardboard that fits in the cart.

Motor oil and household batteries will no longer be collected curbside. Those items can be dropped off at the new Household Hazardous Waste facility located at 1055 A Cleaner Way in Huntsville.

What do I do with my old bin?

RANA said people are welcome to keep their current bins for use around the house. Information on recycling them will be available soon.