Frequently Asked Questions

Material Collection and Disposal

Recyclables

All nonresidential properties must recycle cardboard and mixed paper.

Specific guidelines for employees, commercial building tenants and property owners and managing companies are available online. For suggestions on how to establish your recycling program, consult the Recycling Requirements Guide for Nonresidential Properties (PDF: Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, Page 5).

If your business does an outstanding job in its recycling efforts, consider nominating it for our annual Business Recycling Awards Program.

Toxic Materials and Hazardous Waste

Almost any workplace can generate waste that is potentially toxic or hazardous to the environment. Our Web site has information on: rechargeable batteries, commercial hazardous wastes such as fluorescent light bulbs, as well as electronics and computer recycling. You can also learn about our periodic collection events for businesses that generate small quantities of hazardous waste.

Trash

Find a list of companies that provide trash and recycling collection services to commercial establishments. If you choose to self-haul your trash, you can take materials to one of the county's disposal sites as a commercial cash customer.

Regulations and Guidelines

Chapter 109.1 of the County Code is the primary set of regulations that governs how trash and recyclables are managed in Fairfax County. Specific recycling system objectives are detailed in our online technical publication Recycling Program Requirements. Also see our Recycling Requirements Guide for Nonresidential Properties (PDF: Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, Page 5).