Westchester County, NY Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 825.40(1), Laws of Westchester County
- Applies to
- Every waste generator countywide
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Environmental Facilities
- First-offense penalty
- Warning or fine up to $100
Summary
Every waste generator in Westchester County must separate recyclables from solid waste at the point of generation under the county's Source Separation Law.
Every waste generator in Westchester County shall be responsible for the source separation of solid waste and recyclables at the point of generation. Waste generators shall source-separate additional materials designated as recyclables by a local municipality pursuant to § 120-aa of the General Municipal Law...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 47).
Full Breakdown
Laws of Westchester County § 825.40(1) makes every waste generator, residential and nonresidential, responsible for source-separating recyclables from solid waste where the waste is created. Generators must also separate any additional materials a local municipality designates as recyclable under General Municipal Law § 120-aa, plus household hazardous waste, electronic waste, lithium-ion batteries, and mercury items, and arrange for proper disposal. Recyclables mixed into construction and demolition debris don't need to be pre-separated if the debris goes to a facility that can pull them out. Waste generators unable to comply for good cause may apply to the Commissioner for an exemption.
Violations & Fines
Violations are punishable under § 825.80 with escalating fines: a warning or up to $100 for a first offense, rising to $500, $750, and $1,000 for repeat violations, plus possible civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to separate recyclables from my trash in Westchester County?
Can I skip separating recyclables mixed into construction debris?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Westchester County
New York rules heatmap·Compare Westchester County to another location·View the New York trash & recycling overview
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