In order to be permitted in Fairfax County, solid waste collectors must offer a defined, minimum level of recycling service. Specific requirements vary according to property type. Failure to provide recycling service is a violation of Chapter 109.1. Remember, "No recycling means no permit!"

Recycling Requirements

Residential Properties

• Single-family Homes and Townhouses: Solid waste collectors must collect container glass, metal food and beverage containers, plastic bottles and jugs, yard waste, scrap metal, and mixed paper and cardboard.
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• Multifamily Units (Apartments and Condominiums)
  
  
  • Built before July 1, 2007:  Solid waste collectors must offer collection service for mixed paper and cardboard.
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  • Built on or after July 1, 2007: Solid waste collectors must offer collection service for container glass, metal food and beverage containers, plastic bottles and jugs, yard waste, scrap metal, and mixed paper and cardboard.

Nonresidential Properties (e.g., businesses, institutions, schools)

Solid waste collectors must offer to collect mixed paper and cardboard from their nonresidential customers.

More Recycling Requirements

The Fairfax County Recycling Program Requirements publication contains valuable information on a variety of topics including: recycling reports, annual statements of service, yard waste requirements, permits and registration for collectors and recyclers, customer service requirements, public nuisance (i.e., containers, parking) issues, changes to service and enforcement of Chapter 109.1.