Phoenix, AZ Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Program
- Opt-in, second labeled cart
- Collection frequency
- Once per week
- No bagging/bundling
- Loose in container only
- Contamination penalty
- 12-month program removal
Summary
Phoenix runs an opt-in curbside recycling program giving participants a second labeled cart, collected weekly alongside weekly trash pickup on Director-set days.
The "Phoenix Recycles" program is a method of collection developed to integrate recycling into the automated collection system utilized by the City. Residents are provided a second clearly identified recycling container in which to place specified items defined as recyclables. Residents participating in the recycling program receive once-per-week collection of recyclables and once-per-week collection of solid waste. Specific collection days each week are designated by the Director.
B. Recyclables collected from designated "Phoenix Recycles" recycling containers are taken to a materials recovery facility where they are separated into the various categories of recyclables, weighed, and sold to end processors. Materials that cannot be recycled will be taken to a solid waste disposal facility for disposal. Recyclables placed in a recycling container may not be bagged or bundled. (Ord. No. G-4623, § 1, 2004; Ord. No. G-5756, 2012; Ord. No. G-5920, 2014)
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-7524, passed June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under the 'Phoenix Recycles' program (City Code § 27-25), the City issues a second, clearly identified recycling container to participating households as part of its automated collection system. Participants get once-per-week recyclables collection and once-per-week solid waste collection on days the Public Works Director designates. Collected material goes to a materials recovery facility for sorting, weighing, and sale to end processors; anything unrecyclable is routed to a disposal facility. Recyclables may not be bagged or bundled inside the container.
Violations & Fines
Contaminating the cart with non-recyclables or hazardous waste, or other noncompliance, gets a household removed from the program under § 27-26; reapplication is barred for 12 months absent a Director waiver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recycling mandatory in Phoenix?
Can I bag my recyclables before putting them in the cart?
What happens if I put trash in my recycling cart?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
Compare Phoenix to another location·View the Arizona trash & recycling overview
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Recycling Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle recycling requirements.