Albany, NY Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Materials
- newspaper, paper, cardboard, glass, cans, plastic
- Enforced by
- Dept. of General Services
- Fine range
- $25 to $325 per violation
- Max jail
- 15 days
- Commercial deadline
- 180 days after inclusion
Summary
Albany residents must source-separate newspaper, paper, cardboard, glass, cans and plastic containers for the weekly curbside program, prepared per Department of General Services rules under City Code § 313-13.
All designated recyclables placed for collection or at another location by residents for collection pursuant to the curbside programs established pursuant to Article I of this chapter shall be prepared for collection in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Commissioner.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4873446; v61 updated 2026-03-18; through 03-18-2026).
Full Breakdown
City Code Article II (Chapter 313) requires residents in the curbside program to source-separate designated recyclables and prepare them per Commissioner-issued rules (§ 313-13). Commercial, industrial and institutional establishments in a curbside area must source-separate the same materials within 180 days of inclusion (§ 313-16). It is unlawful to place non-recyclable material in or near a recycling collection area, or to scavenge set-out recyclables (§ 313-19), and the Department may refuse to collect contaminated solid waste (§ 313-20).
Violations & Fines
Violations under § 313-22 carry a fine of $25 to $325, up to 15 days' imprisonment, or community service, plus court costs; the City may also sue for an injunction under § 313-23.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a designated recyclable in Albany?
What happens if I mix trash into the recycling?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Albany
New York rules heatmap·Compare Albany to another location·View the New York trash & recycling overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Recycling Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Albany County handle recycling requirements.