Recycling Requirements: Bellaire vs Tomball
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Bellaire, TX and Tomball, TX?
Tomball has fewer restrictions than Bellaire.
Bellaire, TX
Harris County
Bellaire provides single-stream curbside recycling collection for all residential properties. Accepted recyclables include paper, cardboard, glass, plastics #1-5 and #7, and metal cans. Recycling bins are provided by the city's solid waste contractor. Contamination of recycling with non-recyclable materials may cause the bin to be rejected.
View full Bellaire rules →Tomball, TX
Harris County
The City of Tomball contracts with Frontier Waste Solutions for residential solid waste and curbside recycling collection. Residential properties are divided into two sections, each serviced twice per week for trash. Recyclables go into the same poly cart system. All carts and bags must be at the curb before 7:00 a.m. on collection day, and Frontier collects between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
View full Tomball rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellaire | Tomball |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Single-stream curbside | - |
| Accepted | Paper, cardboard, glass, plastics, metals | - |
| Not Accepted | Plastic bags, Styrofoam, ceramics | - |
| Preparation | Clean, dry, loose — no bags | - |
| Public Works | (713) 662-8160 | - |
| Collection Provider | - | Frontier Waste Solutions |
| Collection Frequency | - | Twice per week (trash); weekly recycling |
| Setout Time | - | By 7:00 a.m. on collection day |
| Collection Window | - | 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. |
| Cart Order | - | Email customerservice@tomballtx.gov |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellaire FAQ
What can I recycle in Bellaire?
Paper, cardboard, glass bottles and jars, plastics #1-5 and #7, aluminum cans, and tin and steel cans. Items should be clean, dry, and placed loose in the bin.
Can I put plastic bags in recycling?
No. Plastic bags, Styrofoam, food-contaminated paper, ceramics, and mirrors are not accepted. Plastic bags can jam recycling equipment.
What happens if I put wrong items in recycling?
Contaminated bins may be tagged and left uncollected. Remove the non-recyclable items and the bin will be collected on the next cycle.
Tomball FAQ
When is recycling picked up in Tomball?
Recycling is collected weekly by Frontier Waste Solutions on your scheduled collection day. Place the cart at the curb by 7:00 a.m. Visit tomballtx.gov for a service map showing your specific day.
What goes in the recycling cart?
Frontier accepts standard recyclables (paper, cardboard, metal cans, plastic bottles, glass containers) loose in the cart — no plastic bags. All items must be empty and free of food debris.
How do I get a recycling cart?
Complete the Poly Cart Order Form and email it to customerservice@tomballtx.gov or deliver it to City staff. Carts are delivered within 5 business days.
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