Johnston County, NC Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Because the county does not run curbside collection outside its towns, § 20-39 sets the rules for the container and recycling sites Johnston County operates for residents who live in unincorporated areas. The sites carry separate containers for household waste and for recyclable materials. A driver dropping off garbage must display a valid county solid waste disposal decal on the windshield of the vehicle, but a resident bringing only recyclables is exempt from the decal requirement, removing a cost barrier to using the recycling containers.

The Utility Director writes the operating policy for these sites, which the Board of Commissioners adopts and can amend at any time (§ 20-39). Residents who are served by a municipality, a private hauler, or one of the county's convenience sites are expected to use one of those options; anyone using none of them must explain their disposal method to the Division of Utilities or the enforcement officer on request (§ 20-37(12)). The sheriff, the designated solid waste officer, and division employees authorized under § 20-35 may issue civil citations for violations at these sites and may let a violator perform cleanup work in lieu of a fine upon written request.