Margate, FL Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Section 19-10 of the Margate Code splits the recycling program by property type. Single-family dwelling units receive collection once per week on one of their scheduled garbage collection days, and the exclusive franchise agreement requires the contractor to supply recycling carts. All recyclable materials go in the same cart, and the resident source separates them from garbage and trash. Placement runs no earlier than 5:00 p.m. the evening prior and no later than 7:00 a.m. on collection day. The cart sits immediately behind the curbline, or in the swale where there is no curb unless the owner and contractor agree otherwise, and it must come back within 12 hours after collection.

Multifamily communities get service at least once per week, with ninety-five-gallon carts at a minimum of one cart for every eight units, or equivalent capacity through mechanical containers or more frequent pickups. Owner-occupied multifamily communities and commercial establishments are not required to subscribe with the contractor. Owner-occupied communities must use a certified recovered materials dealer registered with the city, and commercial establishments can.

The code puts a number on contamination: materials are not source separated when they contain more than 10 percent solid waste by volume or weight. A commercial container over that line is a violation and draws a special collection by the franchised contractor at the establishment's expense. Registered dealers pay $200 for initial registration, $200 for annual renewal and $100 to transfer, and must collect the same materials as the city's franchise, including office paper, cardboard, newspaper, magazines, metal cans and lids, plastic containers numbered 1-7, aseptic and paperboard containers, and glass food and beverage containers. Section 19-5 makes recyclable materials collection part of the mandatory service package for residential dwelling units.