Recycling Requirements: Hoboken vs Jersey City
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Hoboken, NJ and Jersey City, NJ?
Hoboken and Jersey City have similar restriction levels.
Hoboken, NJ
Hudson County
Hudson County follows the NJ Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act (N.J.S.A. 13:1E-99.11) requiring residential recycling of paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastics #1 and #2. Jersey City and Hoboken enforce contamination rules aggressively. Multi-family buildings over 6 units must arrange commercial recycling. HCIA manages the county recycling program.
View full Hoboken rules →Jersey City, NJ
Hudson County
Jersey City requires residential and commercial recycling under New Jersey's Mandatory Recycling Act. The city accepts paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, and metal cans. New Jersey has one of the highest recycling rates in the nation. Failure to separate recyclables may result in fines.
View full Jersey City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hoboken | Jersey City |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | N.J.S.A. 13:1E-99.11 | - |
| Plastics | #1 and #2 only | - |
| Not Accepted | Plastic bags, Styrofoam | - |
| 6+ Units | Private hauler required | - |
| Coordinator | HCIA | - |
| State Mandate | - | NJ Mandatory Recycling Act |
| Accepted | - | Paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, metal |
| Mandatory | - | Required for residential and commercial |
| Penalties | - | Fines for failure to recycle |
| NJ Rate | - | Among highest recycling rates nationally |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hoboken FAQ
Can I recycle yogurt containers in Jersey City?
Only if marked #1 or #2. Most yogurt tubs are #5 polypropylene and not accepted in Hudson County curbside recycling as of 2025.
Do plastic bags go in my recycling bin?
No. Plastic bags jam sorting equipment and are prohibited. Take them to grocery store collection programs.
Jersey City FAQ
Is recycling mandatory in Jersey City?
Yes. New Jersey's Mandatory Recycling Act requires both residential and commercial recycling. Failure to separate recyclables may result in fines.
What can I recycle in Jersey City?
Paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, and metal cans are accepted. Check the city's guidelines for specific accepted materials.
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