Recycling Requirements: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland provides weekly curbside recycling through Waste Management as part of mandatory service under KMC 16.04. Accepted: paper, cardboard, plastic bottles/tubs, metal cans, glass. No plastic bags.
View full Kirkland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle mandates comprehensive recycling and composting under SMC 21.36 with a goal of zero waste, requiring separation of recyclables and food waste from garbage for all residents and businesses with enforcement through contamination checks and fines.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Weekly | - |
| Accepted | Paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, glass | - |
| Not Accepted | Plastic bags, styrofoam | - |
| Code | KMC Chapter 16.04 | - |
| State Law | RCW 70A.530 | - |
| Mandatory Materials | - | Paper, glass, metal, approved plastics, food scraps, yard waste |
| Garbage Bans | - | Recyclables, food waste, yard waste, appliances, electronics, tires |
| City Goal | - | 70% recycling/composting diversion rate |
| Commercial Penalty | - | Up to $50 per occurrence for recycling violations |
| Composting | - | Mandatory for all residents and businesses |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
Is recycling mandatory in Kirkland?
Yes. Recycling is included as part of the mandatory Waste Management service for all residential properties under KMC Chapter 16.04.
Can I put plastic bags in Kirkland recycling?
No. Plastic bags, wrap, and film must be taken to grocery store drop-off locations rather than placed in the curbside recycling cart.
Seattle FAQ
What must be recycled in Seattle?
Seattle requires recycling of paper, cardboard, glass bottles and jars, metal cans, and approved plastics (generally #1, #2, and #5). Food scraps and food-soiled paper must go in the compost cart, not the garbage. Yard waste also goes in compost. Placing these materials in the garbage violates the Solid Waste Code.
Does the food waste composting rule apply to everyone?
Yes. Seattle's mandatory food waste composting requirement applies to all residents (single-family and multifamily) and all businesses. Food scraps, including meat, dairy, and bones, go in the food/yard waste cart along with food-soiled paper products like napkins and paper plates. This is one of the strictest composting mandates in the country.
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