Virginia Mandatory 25 Percent Recycling Rate Requirement

Code § 10.1-1411 requires each solid waste planning unit to maintain a minimum 25 percent recycling rate for principal recyclable materials. A unit qualifies for a reduced 15 percent rate if it has a population density of fewer than 100 persons per square mile or a prior-year civilian unemployment rate at least 50 percent greater than the state average. DEQ administers reporting under 9VAC20-130; units over 100,000 population report annually and smaller units every four years. The Board may grant variances when market conditions make the rate unreasonable.

Failure to meet rates triggers DEQ corrective action plans, public reporting of deficiencies, and potential loss of solid waste planning grants. Civil penalties may apply for failure to file required annual reports.