West Virginia Recycling Requirements (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: W. Va. Code 22-15A-18
Mandatory Threshold: 10,000 population cities
Materials Required: At least three
Funding Mechanism: Tipping fee assessment

Full Breakdown

West Virginia Code Section 22-15A-18 establishes a statewide recycling program administered by the Department of Environmental Protection. Municipalities with populations of ten thousand or more must establish source-separation recycling programs collecting at least three materials. The state imposes a recycling assessment fee on solid waste tipping under Code Section 22-15A-9 to fund grants. The Solid Waste Management Board reviews county and regional recycling plans. Mandatory program rules apply uniformly to qualifying jurisdictions regardless of local choice.

Violations & Penalties

Municipal noncompliance may result in loss of state recycling grant eligibility and Solid Waste Management Board enforcement actions; illegal disposal of recyclables is subject to littering penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which West Virginia cities must offer recycling?

All municipalities with populations of ten thousand or more under W. Va. Code 22-15A-18 must establish source-separation recycling programs collecting at least three designated recyclable materials.

Is curbside recycling mandatory for residents?

State law mandates municipal program availability but does not require individual household participation. Residents in qualifying cities have access to programs but may not face penalties for non-participation.

West Virginia Statewide Recycling Goals and Program Framework