Garfield vs Hackensack
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Garfield has fewer restrictions than Hackensack.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
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 →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack mandates source-separated recycling under New Jersey's Mandatory Source Separation Act. Residents must separate paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastic containers from regular trash for scheduled curbside collection.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| Code chapter | Chapter 249 | - |
| Commingled bag | Clear plastic only | - |
| Plastics accepted | Numbers 1 and 2 | Numbers 1 and 2 |
| Mandate | Mandatory separation | - |
| State law | - | NJ Recycling Act mandatory |
| Required materials | - | Paper, glass, metal, plastic |
| Pickup schedule | - | Alternates with trash |
| First-offense fine | - | Starts at $25 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Hackensack FAQ
What plastics can I recycle in Hackensack?
Hackensack accepts plastic containers marked with recycling symbols 1 (PET) and 2 (HDPE). Other plastics are not accepted in curbside recycling and should go in regular trash.
Do I need to separate paper from cans and bottles?
Hackensack uses source-separated collection, meaning paper and commingled containers may have different pickup days or bin requirements. Check the DPW recycling calendar for current rules.
Compare other topics
See how Garfield and Hackensack compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool