Illinois Statewide Rule

Illinois Solid Waste Planning and Recycling Mandates

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Illinois (2026)

Key Facts

Planning statute: 415 ILCS 15
Electronics ban: 415 ILCS 151
Landscape waste ban: 415 ILCS 5/22.22
Plan term: 20 years

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Illinois General Assembly

Summary

Illinois requires every county to develop and maintain a solid waste management plan with recycling provisions, and bans landfill disposal of landscape waste, electronics, and white goods statewide.

Sec. 4. (a) By March 1, 1991, each county with a population of 100,000 or more and each municipality with a population of 1,000,000 or more, and by March 1, 1995, each county with a population of less than 100,000, shall submit to the Agency an officially adopted plan for the management of municipal waste generated within its boundaries. Such plan shall conform with the waste management hierarchy established as State policy in subsection (b) of Section 2 of the Illinois Solid Waste Management Act.

Source: Illinois General AssemblyView official code

Full Breakdown

Under 415 ILCS 15, the Solid Waste Planning and Recycling Act requires every Illinois county and the City of Chicago to adopt a 20-year solid waste management plan that includes a recycling program. Counties with populations over 100,000 must offer curbside or drop-off recycling for at least three materials. The Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act, 415 ILCS 151, bans landfill disposal of televisions, computers, monitors, and other covered electronic devices statewide. Landscape waste is banned from landfills under 415 ILCS 5/22.22. White goods (appliances containing refrigerants) require CFC removal before disposal under 415 ILCS 5/22.28. These bans apply uniformly across Illinois, regardless of municipal collection systems.

Violations & Penalties

Disposing of banned items in landfills can carry civil penalties up to 50,000 dollars and criminal prosecution under the Environmental Protection Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I throw an old TV in the trash in Illinois?

No. The Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act bans landfill disposal of televisions, computers, and monitors statewide. You must use a registered electronics recycler or collection event.

Are grass clippings and leaves banned from Illinois landfills?

Yes. Landscape waste, including grass, leaves, and brush, is banned from Illinois landfills under 415 ILCS 5/22.22 and must be composted or processed separately.

Sources

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