DC mandates recycling for all residents and businesses under the Sustainable Solid Waste Management Amendment Act (DC Law 20-154). Single-stream recycling accepts paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastics #1-7. Contaminated recycling bins may be rejected.
DC requires all residents, businesses, and government agencies to recycle under DC Law 20-154. Residential recycling is collected every other week by DPW in blue-lid SuperCans. DC uses single-stream recycling, accepting paper, cardboard, glass bottles and jars, metal cans, and plastics #1-7. Food waste composting is available through DPW's food waste drop-off program. Businesses must contract with private haulers for recycling and maintain recycling plans. Contaminated recycling (food waste, plastic bags, Styrofoam) will be rejected. The Sustainable DC 2.0 plan targets 80% waste diversion by 2032. DC also bans disposable food service products made of expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) under DC Law 20-142.
Failure to recycle can result in fines for commercial properties. Contaminated residential recycling bins may be skipped. Businesses without recycling plans face fines from DOEE. Styrofoam food container violations carry fines of $100-$800.
Washington, DC
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Washington, DC
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Washington, DC
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Washington, DC
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See how Washington's recycling requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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