Connecticut Mandatory Statewide Recycling Law

Under CGS Section 22a-241b, the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection has designated mandatory recyclables that may not be disposed of as solid waste. Designated items include glass and metal food containers, corrugated cardboard, newspaper, magazines, scrap metal, white office paper, used motor oil, lead-acid batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, leaves, grass clippings, and certain electronics. Municipalities are required by Section 22a-220 to ensure collection and recycling of designated items. Businesses including restaurants, schools, and offices must separate designated recyclables. The state container deposit law (CGS 22a-243 et seq.) imposes a 5-cent and 10-cent deposit on certain beverage containers statewide.

Disposal of designated recyclables in trash carries fines up to $1,000 per violation, with DEEP and municipal enforcement and possible refusal of collection.