Garfield vs Mahwah
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Mahwah, NJ?
Garfield has fewer restrictions than Mahwah.
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 →Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Mahwah Township's mandatory recycling ordinance requires every household, apartment, and commercial generator to source-separate designated recyclables and present them properly for municipal or private collection.
View full Mahwah rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Mahwah |
|---|---|---|
| Code chapter | Chapter 249 | - |
| Commingled bag | Clear plastic only | - |
| Plastics accepted | Numbers 1 and 2 | - |
| Mandate | Mandatory separation | - |
| Commingled container | - | Glass, metal, plastic together |
| Paper/cardboard | - | Separated from commingled |
| Maximum fine | - | Up to $2,000 per violation |
| Multifamily duty | - | Provide labeled bins |
| Authority | - | NJ Recycling Act and Ordinance 1193 |
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.
Mahwah FAQ
Do I have to separate glass and plastic in Mahwah?
No. Since January 2008 Mahwah accepts commingled glass, plastic, tin, and aluminum in the same container. Paper and corrugated cardboard, however, must still be set out separately for curbside pickup.
What are the penalties for mixing trash and recyclables?
The Township may issue summonses with fines up to $2,000, plus possible community service. Each day a violation continues counts as a separate offense, so prompt correction is important to limit exposure.
Compare other topics
See how Garfield and Mahwah 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