Recycling Requirements: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
The Cook County Solid Waste and Recycling Ordinance establishes a framework to increase recycling rates. The county requires data reporting from waste facilities and promotes recycling through education and facility oversight.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines provides single-stream curbside recycling weekly. Accepted materials include paper, cardboard, plastic bottles and containers (#1-#5), metal cans, and glass bottles and jars. Plastic bags, food waste, electronics, and hazardous materials are prohibited. Illinois bans electronics from landfills under 415 ILCS 150.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance | SWRO | - |
| Reporting | Required for facilities | - |
| Accepted | Paper, glass, metal, plastics | - |
| Portal | Electronic permit system | - |
| Program | - | Single stream weekly |
| Plastics | - | #1-#5 only |
| Plastic Bags | - | Not at curb |
| Electronics | - | Separate collection |
| Coordination | - | SWANCC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
What can I recycle in Cook County?
Paper, cardboard, glass, metal cans, and certain plastics per Cook County recycling guidelines. Check with your waste hauler for specific accepted materials.
Is recycling mandatory in unincorporated Cook County?
The SWRO promotes recycling but enforcement focuses on waste facilities rather than individual households. Check with your waste hauler for recycling options.
Des Plaines FAQ
What can I recycle in Des Plaines?
Paper, cardboard, plastic bottles and containers #1-#5, aluminum and steel cans, and glass bottles and jars. All must be empty and reasonably clean to avoid contaminating the load.
Can I put plastic bags in the recycling cart?
No. Plastic bags jam recycling sorting equipment. Return them to the grocery store collection bins. Do not bag your recyclables in plastic before placing in the cart.
How do I recycle electronics or batteries?
Electronics must be recycled under Illinois law via manufacturer programs, retailer drop-offs, or municipal events. Household batteries are accepted at many retail collection points; rechargeable batteries via Call2Recycle.
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