Recycling Requirements: Hackensack vs Paramus
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Paramus has fewer restrictions than Hackensack.
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 →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 | Hackensack | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| State law | NJ Recycling Act mandatory | - |
| Required materials | Paper, glass, metal, plastic | - |
| Plastics accepted | Numbers 1 and 2 | - |
| Pickup schedule | Alternates with trash | - |
| First-offense fine | Starts at $25 | - |
| 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.
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.
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.
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