Pierce County, WA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Service code
- PCC 8.29.030
- Frequency
- Every other week
- Cart size
- ~96 gal (65 gal option)
- Type
- Single-stream
- Resident participation
- Voluntary
Summary
Pierce County Code 8.29.030 requires certificated haulers to offer every-other-week, single-stream curbside recycling to all single-family homes in unincorporated areas, using an approximately 96-gallon cart. Recycling participation by residents is voluntary, but haulers must provide the service and accept a defined list of materials.
Collection companies shall offer every-other-week (EOW), single-stream curbside collection of recyclables to all single-family residences... Collection companies shall provide one wheeled container of approximately 96 gallons to each of their single-family customers signed up for curbside recycling collection.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-515, and legislation passed through May 26, 2026).
Full Breakdown
PCC 8.29.030 sets minimum service levels: haulers "shall offer every-other-week (EOW), single-stream curbside collection of recyclables to all single-family residences," preferably on the same day as garbage. Each subscribed home gets an approximately 96-gallon wheeled cart, with a 65-gallon alternative on request. The required materials list includes cardboard and Kraft paper, tin and aluminum cans, mixed waste paper, newspaper, and #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) plastic bottles and jars with a neck narrower than the base. Nothing in the section requires residents to participate or prevents them from hauling recyclables to drop-off sites, and haulers may exceed the minimum by collecting glass, scrap metal or food waste. The program is coordinated with the WUTC, which approves the tariffs.
Violations & Fines
Service obligations run against the certificated hauler and are enforced through the county and the WUTC, not against individual residents. Residents are not fined for choosing not to recycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recycling mandatory for residents?
What can go in the curbside recycling cart?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
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