Recycling Requirements: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg has fewer restrictions than Takoma Park.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg provides curbside recycling collection for single-family homes. Recycling is mandatory under Montgomery County law. Accepted materials include paper, cardboard, glass, metal cans, and plastics numbered 1-7. Recycling must be placed in designated bins and set out on the same day as trash collection. Yard waste composting is collected separately during the growing season.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Takoma Park mandates recycling for all residents and businesses under Chapter 9.04 of the Municipal Code. Single-stream recycling accepts paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and plastics #1-7. Contamination of recycling with non-recyclable materials may result in service suspension.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Recycling | Mandatory under county law | - |
| Collection | Single-stream curbside | - |
| Accepted Materials | Paper, glass, metal, plastics 1-7 | - |
| Yard Waste | Separate collection March-December | - |
| DPW Contact | 301-258-6370 | - |
| Code Section | - | Ch. 9.04 Solid Waste |
| Recycling Type | - | Single-stream |
| Accepted Plastics | - | #1 through #7 |
| Multi-Family | - | Must provide bins and signage |
| Not Accepted | - | Plastic bags, Styrofoam, food-soiled paper |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Is recycling mandatory in Gaithersburg?
Yes. Montgomery County law requires all residents and businesses to recycle. Gaithersburg provides curbside single-stream recycling for single-family homes. Accepted materials include paper, glass, metals, and plastics 1-7.
What cannot go in the recycling bin in Gaithersburg?
Plastic bags, Styrofoam, flexible packaging, food-soaked paper, greasy pizza boxes, and electronics are not accepted. Only clean, dry recyclables should go in the bin.
How is yard waste collected in Gaithersburg?
Yard waste is collected separately from March through December. Place grass clippings, leaves, and small branches in paper bags or open containers at the curb on your collection day. Plastic bags are not accepted for yard waste.
Takoma Park FAQ
Is recycling mandatory in Takoma Park?
Yes. Chapter 9.04 requires all residents and businesses to separate recyclables from trash. The city provides curbside single-stream recycling pickup every other week.
What plastics can I recycle in Takoma Park?
Plastics numbered #1 through #7 are accepted. Plastic bags, film wrap, and Styrofoam are not accepted and should go in the trash.
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