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Colorado Springs, CO Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Mandatory
No: residential recycling is voluntary
Curbside Program
Available through city recycling program
Accepted Materials
Paper, cardboard, glass, metals, plastics #1-7
Drop-Off Centers
Available for additional materials
Commercial
Additional requirements may apply

Summary

Colorado Springs offers voluntary curbside recycling through its recycling program, but residential recycling is not mandatory. The city encourages recycling through education and convenient drop-off locations. Accepted curbside recyclables typically include paper, cardboard, glass, metal cans, and plastics #1-7. Commercial properties generating large amounts of recyclable material may be subject to additional requirements. The city also operates recycling drop-off centers for materials not accepted in curbside programs.

Common Code Violations. Garbage and household waste needs to be discarded and stored in a clean and sanitary manner that prevents it from becoming a home for rodents or to keep it from putrefying. This includes picking up and discarding pet waste properly at home and in public places. Firewood can be stored outside, but needs to be neatly stacked in the side or rear yards only. Appliances, furniture, manufactured goods, and personal items needs to be stored inside an enclosed building or out of view in a rear yard. Weeds and Grasses need to be kept below 9" in height. Remember, if your property borders an alley, you are responsible for the area from your property line to the middle of the alley. Vehicles stored outside on private property must be operable and free from damage that renders them unlawful for operation on a roadway. Recreational vehicles must be parked at least ten feet away from the sidewalk or front property line. All vehicles must be parked on an improved surface (concrete, asphalt, or gravel). Any dwelling rented or used for residential purposes must comply with minimum housing standards. This means the house or apartment must be free from pests and plumbing problems. The City Code also includes provision regulating heat, utilities, and required facilities. In the case of snowstorms, sidewalks adjacent to your property need to be cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours of the end of the storm. Bear Resistant Trash Cans. Short Term Rentals (STR). Snow Shoveling.

Source: Colorado Springs Recycling ProgramView official code

Full Breakdown

Colorado Springs mandates curbside recycling for paper, cardboard, glass, aluminum, and plastics #1-#5. Residents must separate recyclables from trash using provided bins. Contaminated bins containing food waste, plastic bags, or non-recyclable items may be rejected. Colorado recycling goals encourage diversion from landfills. Multi-family properties above a certain unit count may have additional commercial recycling requirements. Yard waste and food scraps may have separate programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is recycling mandatory in Colorado Springs?
No. Residential recycling is voluntary in Colorado Springs, though the city encourages participation through its curbside recycling program and drop-off centers.
What materials can I recycle curbside?
The curbside program typically accepts paper, cardboard, glass bottles and jars, metal cans, and plastics #1-7. Check with your recycling provider for specific accepted items.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Colorado Springs

All Colorado Springs rules

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