Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Port Townsend, WA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Container source
Approved bins from city's contractor
Participation
Mandatory for all developed property
Self-haul
Allowed to recycler of choice
Curbside blocking
Sidewalks/driveways/parking prohibited

Summary

Port Townsend requires curbside recyclables in contractor-approved containers, and every developed property must subscribe to solid waste service.

Recyclable materials for curbside collection shall be set out in approved recycling containers provided by the solid waste collection contractor.

B. The containers shall be placed at the curbside as defined in this chapter. Curbside placement of solid waste cans and bags, yard waste, and recycling containers shall not block sidewalks, driveways or on-street parking.

C. All solid waste containers are to be kept clean and free of odors by the customer or other person having charge of same.

D. Director’s Authority. Whenever the public works director or his or her designee (“director”) determines that a condition exists in violation of this chapter or any standard required to be adhered to by this chapter, or in violation of any permit issued hereunder, he or she is authorized to enforce the provisions of this chapter.

E. Chapter 1.20 PTMC Applicable. All violations of any provision of this chapter or incorporated standards, or of any permit or license issued hereunder, are declared nuisances and made subject to the administration and enforcement provisions of Chapter 1.20 PTMC, including any amendments, and including but not limited to abatement, criminal penalty, and civil penalty as set forth in Chapter 1.20 PTMC, which are incorporated by reference as if set forth herein. (Ord. 2952 § 3, 2008; Ord. 2800 § 1, 2002; Ord. 2620 § 2, 1997; Ord. 2221 § 3, 1990; Ord. 1138 § 3, 1942).

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 3364, passed May 18, 2026).

Full Breakdown

PTMC 6.04.030 requires recyclable materials set out for curbside collection in approved recycling containers supplied by the city's solid waste contractor, placed at the curb without blocking sidewalks, driveways, or on-street parking. PTMC 6.04.040 makes taking contractor service mandatory for every developed property, residential building, and place of business in the city, and bars anyone but the city's designated contractor from collecting or hauling recyclables, garbage, or yard waste for a fee, though customers may personally haul their own recyclables to a recycling center of their choice.

Violations & Fines

Violations are nuisances enforced under Chapter 1.20 PTMC, covering abatement, criminal penalty, and civil penalty; unpaid service charges also become a lien against the property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip curbside recycling service in Port Townsend?
No. PTMC 6.04.040 requires every developed property, residential building, and business to take the contractor's service.
Can I haul my own recycling instead of using the curbside bin?
Yes, PTMC 6.04.040(B)(1) lets customers haul their own recyclables to a recycling center of their choice, but not through a third-party hauler.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Port Townsend

All Port Townsend rules

Compare Port Townsend to another location·View the Washington trash & recycling overview

Get notified when Recycling Requirements in Port Townsend, WA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.