Del Norte County, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Recology Del Norte's three-cart system includes a blue recycling cart collected weekly alongside garbage and optional brush/green service. The recycling cart accepts clean, uncontaminated paper, cardboard, bottles, cans, aluminum, glass, and most plastics, including tubs, jugs, jars, and bottles numbered 1, 2, and 5. Plastics numbered 3, 4, 6, and 7, plastic bags, bubble wrap, and film plastic are not accepted in the recycling cart and instead go to the landfill cart. Mandatory recycling obligations come from both local ordinances adopted through the Del Norte Solid Waste Management Authority and California state law. Under California's AB 341 mandatory commercial recycling law, businesses that generate 4 or more cubic yards of solid waste per week and multifamily dwellings of 5 or more units must arrange for recycling service; businesses and property owners may subscribe to recycling services to comply, and property owners can require tenants to separate recyclables. Locally adopted ordinances additionally require landlords to provide recycling collection from their residential rental properties. The Authority and Recology administer education and compliance, and businesses can be required to demonstrate recycling arrangements. Residential customers throughout Del Norte County have access to the blue recycling cart as part of their service. Residents should keep recyclables clean and loose and avoid placing prohibited plastics, bags, or film in the recycling cart.