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🗑️ Trash & Recycling/Recycling Requirements

Fort Lee vs Garfield

How do recycling requirements rules compare between Fort Lee, NJ and Garfield, NJ?

Garfield has fewer restrictions than Fort Lee.

Fort Lee, NJ

Bergen County

Some Restrictions

Fort Lee enforces mandatory recycling under New Jersey law, requiring separation of paper, commingled containers, and other designated materials.

View full Fort Lee rules →

Garfield, NJ

Bergen County

Few Restrictions

Garfield Chapter 249 makes recycling mandatory, requiring residents to separate recyclables from other solid waste and place commingled glass, metal, and #1 or #2 plastics in recycling barrels or clear plastic bags only.

View full Garfield rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactFort LeeGarfield
State lawNJSA 13:1E-99.11 et seq.-
MaterialsPaper, glass, metal, plastic-
FrequencyScheduled curbside-
CommercialReporting required-
Code chapter-Chapter 249
Commingled bag-Clear plastic only
Plastics accepted-Numbers 1 and 2
Mandate-Mandatory separation

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Fort Lee FAQ

What must I recycle in Fort Lee?

Designated materials include paper, cardboard, glass bottles, metal cans, and plastic bottles or jugs. The Borough recycling coordinator can confirm currently accepted plastic resins and any updates to the list.

Are businesses required to recycle?

Yes. New Jersey law obligates commercial generators to source-separate recyclables, maintain records, and submit periodic reports. Fort Lee enforces these mandates locally through inspections and penalties.

Garfield FAQ

Which plastics does Garfield accept in commingled recycling?

Only plastic containers marked #1 (PET) or #2 (HDPE) on the bottom. Other plastic numbers must go in regular refuse, not the recycling stream.

Can I use black trash bags for recyclables in Garfield?

No. Commingled recyclables must be placed in recycling barrels or clear plastic bags so collectors can verify the contents. Opaque bags are not accepted.

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