Peoria, IL Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)

Section 13-11 targets scavenging and unauthorized pickup of recyclables in Peoria: it is unlawful for any person to collect, obtain, possess or pick up a recyclable item that has been placed for collection on a public place, public way or private property for a recycling program, unless that person is authorized by the director of public works as a recycling contractor under an approved program. The ordinance defines recyclable item narrowly as paper, cardboard, glass, metal cans and plastic containers, so the restriction covers exactly the materials residents typically set at the curb for recycling pickup.

Section 13-12 lays out how a hauler becomes an authorized recycling contractor. The director of public works approves programs in writing, with a copy filed with the city clerk, and only after the applicant meets five standards: holding a valid, current scavenger's license from the city; describing the service, including drop-off locations, materials collected and vehicles used; filing an annual report by January 31 detailing the volume of recyclables collected and diverted from landfills and the number of residential and commercial subscribers; disposing of collected material in accordance with local, state and federal law; and notifying the director within five days if the program ends.

Approvals run through December 31 of the year issued and must be renewed by written application each year. The director can revoke an approval at any time if the contractor falls out of compliance with any of these standards, cutting off that hauler's authorization to legally collect recyclables anywhere in the city.