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Baltimore County, MD Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

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

Key Facts

System
Single-stream (all mixed)
Plastic bags
Banned for recyclables
Container limit
45 gal / 45 lbs
Prohibited colors
Red, pink, yellow
State mandate
35% recycling rate (MD)

Summary

Baltimore County collects mixed paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass together as single-stream recycling. Recyclables must not be set out in plastic bags of any type or color, which would jam the sorting facility; set-outs are limited to sturdy containers no over 45 gallons/45 pounds.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Baltimore County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Recyclables must not be set out for recycling collection in plastic bags of any type or color (ban on plastic bags needed to prevent processing complications at the "single stream" recycling sorting facility).

View official code

Full Breakdown

Under the County's collection regulation (authorized by County Code Section 13-4-213), residents may mix all acceptable recyclable paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass when set out for 'single stream' collection. Recyclables go in sturdy outdoor containers clearly marked for recycling (an 'X' or 'RECYCLE'), limited to 45 gallons and 45 pounds filled, or in cardboard boxes or paper bags/bundles up to 30 pounds. Recyclables must not be set out in plastic bags of any type or color, because they cause processing complications at the single-stream sorting facility, and must not be in red, pink, or yellow containers. Maryland's Recycling Act requires the County to meet at least a 35% recycling rate; the County set a voluntary 45% goal.

Violations & Fines

Recyclables set out in plastic bags, in prohibited-color containers, or exceeding weight/size limits may not be collected. Scavenging recyclables set out for an authorized County collector is prohibited under Section 17-1-112.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix all my recyclables together?
Yes. Baltimore County uses single-stream recycling, so acceptable paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass may be mixed in one clearly marked recycling container.
Can I put recyclables out in plastic bags?
No. Recyclables must not be set out in plastic bags of any type or color, because they cause processing complications at the single-stream sorting facility.
What container should I use for recycling?
A sturdy outdoor container marked with an 'X' or 'RECYCLE', no more than 45 gallons and 45 pounds; small cardboard boxes or paper bags up to 30 pounds also work.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Baltimore County

Bulk Item DisposalFew RestrictionsRecycling RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsBin Placement RulesSome RestrictionsDumpster RulesSome RestrictionsIllegal DumpingHeavy RestrictionsPickup Rules & SchedulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions

All Baltimore County rules

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