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TextFAQs: Recycling
Are there any recycling announcements or upcoming events?
What are the basic recycling requirements for Fairfax County?
What can I recycle in Fairfax County?
What happens to my recyclables?
How much material is collected for recycling annually?
What recycling information do you have for kids?
When are my recyclables picked up?
Where are Fairfax County's recycling drop-off centers located?
Where can I learn about buying recycled products?
Where can I learn about the I-66 and I-95 complexes for recycling and disposal?
Where should I call to get a recycling bin?
Where can I pick up free mulch?
Why do some people get county collection and others have private haulers?
Are there any recycling announcements or upcoming events?
We maintain a list of recycling news and announcements as well as an event calendar online.
Learn how to practice waste reduction through smart shopping and reuse.
What are the basic recycling requirements for Fairfax County?
What can I recycle in Fairfax County?
A detailed list of recyclable materials can be found online. In addition to common recyclables, you will find information about recycling computers, motor oil, packaging peanuts and much more!
What happens to my recyclables?
Recyclables are taken from your curb to a materials recovery facility where they are separated and baled or crushed. They are then sold to a manufacturer who uses them to create new materials. Watch our Pop-Up Trash video to learn more! You will need a media player to view the video.
The only types of plastic that are required to be recycled in Fairfax County are plastic bottles and jugs. To determine that the container is a bottle or jug, make sure it has a neck. (The top must be narrower than the body or base.)
Recycling any additional plastics is entirely voluntary. The best thing to do is check with your recycling collection company. Some collection companies are collecting additional plastics such as yogurt containers, margarine tubs – even pill bottles. Your hauler can provide you with specific guidance.
Don’t worry about the number! In the past, residents were encouraged to identify the resin identification code of a plastic container prior to recycling it. This is no longer the case.
At this time, only plastic bottles and jugs are accepted at area recycling drop-off centers. Remember, these are the only mandated plastics at this time.
How much material is collected for recycling annually?
In 2008, approximately 491,113 tons of recyclables were collected in Fairfax County. See our tonnage chart (PDF) for a historical view of recycling.
What recycling information do you have for kids?
When are my recyclables picked up?
Pickup starts at 6 a.m. Some companies collect the same day as trash pickup. Call your collection company to check.
Where are Fairfax County's recycling drop-off centers located?
Drop-off centers are located throughout the county. See the full list of locations and materials accepted.
Where can I learn about buying recycled products?
You can learn about the importance of buying recycled products on our Web site.
Where can I learn about the I-66 and I-95 complexes for recycling and disposal?
Information such as hours, directions and materials accepted at the I-66 Transfer Station Complex and the I-95 Landfill Complex can be found online.
Where should I call to get a recycling bin?
If you are a county collection customer, please call 703-802-3322, TTY 711. If a private company collects your trash and recyclables, please call them directly.
Where can I pick up free mulch?
Mulch is available at the I-66 and I-95 complexes on a seasonal basis. Please call the mulch information line for the latest information. The number is 703-324-5995, TTY 711.
Why do some people get county collection and others have private haulers?
Fairfax County collects trash and recyclables from over 44,000 homes located in Solid Waste Collection Areas. This service is obtained through a petition process. Call 703-324-5230, TTY 711 for information. See also: Curbside Collection and County Collection Service.
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