Trash & Recycling in York County, PA (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated York County, Pennsylvania.

Verified from official government sources

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

Pickup Rules & Schedules

No matter where you live in York County, your hauler must deliver household garbage to the York County Resource Recovery Center, a waste-to-energy plant run by the York County Solid Waste Authority. Curbside collection itself is arranged by your municipality or a private hauler.

All York County Trash Goes to the Resource Recovery Center

Some Restrictions

YCSWA FAQ; PA Act 101, 53 P.S. §4000.101

No matter where you live in York County, your hauler delivers your garbage to the York County Resource Recovery Center. The center is a waste-to-energy facility that burns your garbage in accordance with strict environmental standards.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Bulk Item Disposal

York County residents can self-haul bulk trash and special-handling items directly to the York County Resource Recovery Center. Fees are $85 per ton with a $20 minimum for loads up to 470 pounds; tire-only loads are $200 per ton. Electronics-only loads are accepted free.

Bulk and Special-Handling Waste Drop-Off at YCRRC

Some Restrictions

YCSWA / YCRRC posted disposal fees

$85/ton. Minimum fee of $20 for loads up to 470 pounds. $200/ton for loads consisting solely of tires. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sat 8:00 AM–Noon. YCSWA is not a trash hauler. We do not pick up your garbage.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Recycling Requirements

Under Pennsylvania's Act 101, recycling is mandatory in 18 York County municipalities, determined by population and density. About 99% of the county's population has access to curbside or drop-off recycling. Your specific municipality sets the accepted materials and collection schedule.

Mandatory Recycling in 18 York County Municipalities Under Act 101

Some Restrictions

PA Act 101, 53 P.S. §4000.101 (per YCSWA)

Act 101 makes recycling a requirement in 18 York County municipalities. Mandatory recycling is based on the population/density of a community. Approximately 99% of York County's population has access to curbside or drop-off recycling programs.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All York County ordinances

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

York County Ordinance Hub →