How to use PGC311 to fix county problems fast

For Prince George's County residents, PGC311 is the single place to turn when a non-emergency problem needs attention. Whether you have questions about trash collection, need to report a pothole, want code enforcement to check a property, or are seeking help from Animal Services, the county’s PGC311 phone line and online portal are how requests are logged, routed and tracked.

Start with the basics: have your address, a clear description of the issue, and a photo if possible. Submitting a request through PGC311 creates a case number that lets you follow progress and provides the county department with the information officials need to act. The system is designed for service requests that do not require immediate emergency response; do not use it as a substitute for 911 in life-threatening situations.

Garbage and recycling questions are among the most frequent requests. The county’s Department of the Environment maintains collections pages with calendars and rules for curbside recycling, bulk trash, and yard waste that affect collection schedules and what goes at the curb. When severe weather, emergency closures, or holiday suspensions happen, collection days can shift; checking the Department of the Environment pages and filing a PGC311 request can help you confirm pickup status for your address.

For street hazards and public works needs, PGC311 routes reports such as potholes, damaged signs, or blocked drainage to the appropriate maintenance crews. Timely reporting reduces safety risks for drivers and pedestrians and helps prioritize repairs that affect neighborhoods across the county. Code enforcement complaints about overgrown lots, illegal dumping, or property upkeep are also initiated through PGC311; those requests trigger inspections and, where necessary, follow-up by county staff.

Animal Services and the Adoption Center are accessible through the same framework. Residents can report stray or injured animals, inquire about lost-and-found pets, or get contact information for adoption and surrender options via PGC311. That channel connects callers and online users with the right unit so animal welfare concerns do not fall through the cracks.

Using PGC311 effectively saves time and avoids duplicated effort. Keep your case number, check for status updates, and follow any guidance provided by the responding department. For many daily headaches—missed pickups, dangerous potholes, code violations, or animal issues—PGC311 is the way to start the fix.

Our two cents? Before you post about a missed pickup or neighborhood hazard on social media, file it with PGC311 first and keep the case number handy; you’ll likely get a faster and more official response.