Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Mandatory 25 Percent Recycling Rate Requirement

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

Virginia requires solid waste planning units to achieve a minimum 25 percent municipal solid waste recycling rate annually, with reduced 15 percent rate available to qualifying rural and low-population planning units.

Key Facts

Statute: Va. Code 10.1-1411
Standard Rate: 25 percent annually
Reduced Rate: 15 percent eligibility
Reporting Agency: Virginia DEQ

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System

Full Breakdown

Virginia Code Section 10.1-1411 mandates each solid waste planning unit achieve and maintain a minimum 25 percent recycling rate of principal recyclable materials generated within the unit. Planning units with population below 100,000 or unemployment exceeding the state average may qualify for a reduced 15 percent rate. The Department of Environmental Quality administers reporting through 9VAC20-130-10. Localities must report recycling data annually, and persistent non-compliance can result in enforcement actions or required corrective plans.

Violations & Penalties

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia require households to recycle?

State law requires planning units to achieve 25 percent recycling but does not directly mandate household participation. Local ordinances may impose specific household recycling requirements within their jurisdiction.

Which materials count toward Virginia's recycling rate?

Principal recyclable materials include paper, metal, plastic, glass, yard waste, wood, textiles, tires, used oil, and oil filters when diverted from disposal and recycled rather than landfilled.

Sources

Va. Code 10.1-1411

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia require households to recycle?

Which materials count toward Virginia's recycling rate?

Principal recyclable materials include paper, metal, plastic, glass, yard waste, wood, textiles, tires, used oil, and oil filters when diverted from disposal and recycled rather than landfilled.