Trash & Recycling in Lancaster County, PA (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Lancaster County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Recycling Requirements

Under PA Act 101, larger Lancaster County municipalities must run recycling programs. Municipalities with 10,000+ residents (or 5,000–10,000 with density over 300/sq mi) must require residents to separate at least three recyclables plus leaf waste.

Mandatory Recycling in Lancaster County (PA Act 101)

Some Restrictions

53 P.S. §4000.1501(c)(1)(i) (Act 101 of 1988)

The three materials shall be chosen from the following: clear glass, colored glass, aluminum, steel and bimetallic cans, high-grade office paper, newsprint, corrugated paper and plastics.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Illegal Dumping

Illegal dumping is a state crime in Pennsylvania. Under 18 Pa.C.S. §6501 (scattering rubbish), depositing waste on roads, others' land, or waterways is a summary offense carrying fines, mandatory litter cleanup, or jail, with steeper penalties for repeat and vehicle-based dumping.

Illegal Dumping Penalties in Lancaster County, PA

Some Restrictions

18 Pa.C.S. §6501(a)(1)

A person is guilty of an offense if he: (1) causes any waste paper, sweepings, ashes, household waste, glass, metal, refuse or rubbish, or any dangerous or detrimental substance to be deposited into or upon any road, street, highway, alley or railroad right-of-way, or upon the land of another or into the waters of this Commonwealth.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Lancaster County ordinances

See every category we cover for Lancaster County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Lancaster County Ordinance Hub →