Pennsylvania Act 101 Mandatory Recycling Requirements

Act 101 requires Pennsylvania municipalities with populations of 10,000 or more, and those between 5,000 and 10,000 with a population density above 300 per square mile, to implement curbside recycling programs. Mandated recyclables include at least three of: clear glass, colored glass, aluminum cans, steel cans, high-grade office paper, newsprint, corrugated cardboard, and plastics. Commercial, municipal, and institutional establishments statewide must recycle aluminum, high-grade office paper, and corrugated paper. Leaf waste must be collected separately and composted.

Municipalities failing to comply may lose Act 101 grant funding and recycling performance grants. Generators violating commercial recycling face civil penalties up to $300 per day per violation enforced by the PA Department of Environmental Protection.