New Mexico Statewide Rule
New Mexico Recycling and Illegal Dumping Act Statewide Goals
Key Facts
- Governing law
- NMSA 74-13
- Statewide goal
- 50% diversion
- Battery recycling
- Mandatory return
- Local mandate
- Optional curbside
- Lead agency
- NM Environment Department
Summary
New Mexico's Recycling and Illegal Dumping Act sets a statewide recycling goal and requires counties to plan disposal capacity, while leaving curbside recycling specifics to local governments.
J. a goal to divert twenty-five percent of all solid waste from solid waste disposal facilities by July 1, 1995, and fifty percent of all solid waste by July 1, 2000, with a base rate of disposal calculated by multiplying the population of the state by four pounds per person per day for the period used as the base period.
Full Breakdown
The Recycling and Illegal Dumping Act (NMSA 74-13) establishes a statewide goal of recycling or composting 50% of the solid waste stream and creates a fund supporting local recycling infrastructure. Counties must include recycling components in solid waste plans submitted to the NM Environment Department. The state regulates beverage container recycling, e-waste through manufacturer programs, and lead-acid battery returns under NMSA 74-9-37. While curbside recycling mandates remain optional and vary by city, statewide rules govern facility permits, hazardous components, and transport of recyclable materials.
Violations & Penalties
Failing to follow state hazardous recycling rules (batteries, e-waste, oil) is a civil violation with fines up to $1,000 per occurrence. Improper disposal may constitute illegal dumping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recycling mandatory in New Mexico?
Can I throw batteries in the trash?
Sources
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