Buffalo, NY Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Who must recycle
- All commercial users; multiresidential complexes (4+ units)
- Required recyclables
- Newsprint, paper, magazines, cardboard, glass, plastic containers, aluminum cans, metal cans, wood waste
- Food/beverage service extras
- Glass, plastic, aluminum, and metal cans must be source-separated
- Max fine
- $250 per offense
- Imprisonment
- Up to 15 days or community service
Summary
Buffalo mandates source separation of recyclables for all commercial users and multiresidential complexes with four or more units. Required materials include newsprint, paper, magazines, cardboard, glass, plastic containers, aluminum and metal cans, and wood waste.
§ 216-43(A): All commercial users within the City shall source-separate and arrange for the collection for recycling of recyclable material as may be included in or added to such curbline program pursuant to the rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner.
§ 216-43(B): Recyclable material for the mandatory commercial user source separation program shall consist of the following: (1) Newsprint. (2) Paper. (3) Magazines. (4) Cardboard. (5) Glass, plastic containers, aluminum containers, and metal cans generated by food and beverage service establishments. (6) Wood waste. (7) Other recyclable material as designated by resolution of the Common Council or by the Commissioner's regulations promulgated under this chapter at all times 30 days after said designation and publication of notice in an official newspaper of the City or a newspaper of general circulation within the city.
Full Breakdown
Under § 216-43, all commercial users must source-separate and arrange collection for recycling of designated materials. Multiresidential complexes must provide and maintain designated recycling collection areas, and occupants must use them. Food and beverage service establishments must separately collect glass, plastic containers, aluminum containers, and metal cans. Penalties for recycling violations include fines of $25–$250 per offense and/or up to 15 days imprisonment or community service.
Violations & Fines
Any person who engages in unlawful conduct under the recycling article may, upon conviction, be sentenced to imprisonment for up to 15 days or community service, or a fine of not less than $25 and not more than $250, or any combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials must commercial businesses recycle in Buffalo?
Does my apartment building need a recycling area?
What happens if a business fails to recycle?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
New York rules heatmap·Compare Buffalo to another location·View the New York trash & recycling overview
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