District of Columbia Statewide Rule
Washington DC Mandatory Recycling Source Separation
Key Facts
- Governing law
- D.C. Code § 8-1031.03
- Required streams
- Recyclables, compost, trash
- 1st-offense fine
- $200
- 3rd-offense fine
- $1,500
- Enforcer
- DC Public Works (DPW)
Summary
Washington DC requires everyone to separate discarded solid waste into three streams at the point of discard: recyclable materials, compostable materials, and trash, under the Sustainable Solid Waste Management Amendment Act.
Solid waste in the District shall be separated at the point of discard into the following categories: (A) Recyclable materials; (B) Compostable materials; and (C) Trash.
Full Breakdown
D.C. Official Code § 8-1031.03(a) directs that solid waste in the District be separated at the point of discard into recyclable materials, compostable materials, and trash. The Mayor publishes and biannually reviews the list of recyclable materials. Property owners must supply adequate, labeled containers for each stream under § 8-1031.04. The Department of Public Works enforces the recycling regulations (21 DCMR Ch. 20-21); the fine schedule for failing to provide or maintain recycling containers is $200 for a first offense, $600 for a second within 60 days, and $1,500 for a third within 60 days.
Violations & Penalties
Failing to provide sufficient recycling containers or maintain them draws DPW fines of $200 first offense, $600 second, and $1,500 third within 60 days, plus doubled penalties for ignoring a notice of violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recycling mandatory in Washington DC?
What are the fines for not recycling in DC?
Sources
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