Frequently Asked Questions

How do I obtain a curbside recycling bin?
By calling 72-EARTH (723-2784); please allow one week for delivery. Each single family household is allowed two (2) bins.  A second bin will be provided upon request, at no charge.

How can I get a replacement for my bin that is missing or damaged?
By calling the Recycling Hotline at 72-EARTH (723-2784) between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. There is no charge for the replacement bin.

My recycling was missed. How do I report a missed pickup?
First, check to see if you were left a red non-collection courtesy notice explaining why the materials were not collected. If you did not find a notice, call the Recycling Hotline at 72-EARTH (723-2784) between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Please allow 24 hours for pickup.

What if I have more recyclable materials than will fit in my curbside bin?
You have several options: 
(1) Request a second bin by calling 72-EARTH (723-2784) between 8:00 a.m. and  5:00 p.m. on weekdays. (2) A brown paper bag may be used to collect paper items. Do not use plastic bags for recyclables, except shredded paper which must be tied. (3) Take your additional materials to the free recycling drop-off center at the Hanes Mill Road Landfill.

The recycling truck usually comes by my house late in the day. Why should I place my bin at the curb by 6:00 a.m.?
Route schedules may change due to employee changes, weather conditions, or other factors.  Late set-outs may delay your pickup until your next collection day.

Should I put my recycling bin out when it's raining?
Yes.  Not putting your bin out on a rainy day may cause recycling crews to work extra long later if many residents set out more bins than usual.

I would like to recycle, but I cannot carry my recycling bin to the curb. So, how can I recycle?
If you have a mobility impairment, documented by a physician, and there is no one in your household who can move the recycling container to and from the curb, we can help. Call 72-EARTH (723-2784) between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays for information and assistance. Once the documentation is received, your curbside bin will be switched out for a special bin.

I'm moving. What should I do with my recycling bin(s)?
Leave the bin(s) for the next resident to use. If there isn't a bin at your new residence, call the Recycling Hotline at 72-EARTH to have a bin delivered.

What is NOT accepted for recycling?
Aluminum foil, aluminum pie tins, aluminum scraps, antifreeze containers, books, binders, ceramics, deli containers, dishes, drinking glasses, hazardous waste containers, light bulbs, mirrors, motor oil containers, paint cans, pesticide containers, pizza boxes or other cardboard boxes that are contaminated with grease or food residue, plastic bags, plastic newspaper bags, plastic wrap, Pyrex containers, spiral notebooks, Styrofoam, wax-coated boxes, wide-mouth containers (margarine tubs, ice cream pails, etc.) or window glass.  If in doubt, please call 72-EARTH.

Why should I recycle?
Recycling has both environmental and economic benefits. Recycling reduces the amount of waste generated by your household, saves landfill space, and reduces the costs for landfill disposal. Also, recycling saves energy and natural resources (i.e., water, minerals, trees), reduces air and water pollution, and creates markets for recyclable materials.

What else can I do?
Encourage others to reduce waste and recycle. Don't forget to "close the loop" by purchasing recycled content products and packaging.