Springfield, IL Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Springfield City Code Sec. 11 requires recyclable materials to go into an approved recycling receptacle; once the bin is removed, leftover items cannot simply be left at the curb, and deposits may only be made while a receptacle is actually on site. A violation carries a $500 fine, with each day the violation continues counted as a separate offense, and up to $100 of that fine may go to anyone whose information leads to the charging and conviction of the offender. The office of public works sets and can expand or reduce the accepted items as markets change, but the initial list under Sec.

11(c) covers #1 PETE plastic bottles, #2 HDPE milk and water jugs, other plastics accepted by end markets, clear or colored glass jars and bottles that held edible food or drink, aluminum beverage cans and pie pans, tin and bi-metal cans, and cardboard, newspaper, and paper that is dry and free of contaminants. 5-gallon blue containers the city distributes through refuse haulers, except up to a 32-gallon bin is allowed for cardboard, per Sec. 02. The office of public works may suspend collection of any material under Sec.

13 if no viable end-user or market exists, publishing notice on bulletin boards at the Municipal Center West, in the local newspaper, and by certified mail to every licensed hauler.