Recycling Requirements: Garfield vs Paramus
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Garfield and Paramus have similar restriction levels.
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 →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus Chapter 379 Article III mandates source separation and recycling of newspapers, cardboard, aluminum, glass, tin, and plastic for residents and businesses.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Code chapter | Chapter 249 | - |
| Commingled bag | Clear plastic only | - |
| Plastics accepted | Numbers 1 and 2 | - |
| Mandate | Mandatory separation | - |
| Code section | - | Chapter 379, Article III |
| Mandatory items | - | Paper, glass, metal, plastic |
| Multifamily threshold | - | 25 or more units |
| Drop-off option | - | Paramus Recycling Center |
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.
Paramus FAQ
What materials must be recycled in Paramus?
Mandatory recyclables include used newspapers, corrugated cardboard, aluminum cans, glass, tin cans, and plastic, all of which must be source-separated from regular trash.
Do apartment buildings have to recycle?
Yes, multifamily properties with 25 or more units must provide recycling containers and comply with the mandatory recycling ordinance, with additional administrative obligations on owners.
Compare other topics
See how Garfield and Paramus 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