Grand Forks, ND Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

Section 13-0407(1) makes it unlawful for any private collector of recyclable materials to collect, handle, haul, or transport those materials on city streets, alleys, or public ways without first getting a council permit. Subsection (2) defines recyclable materials to include paper, paper products, glass, aluminum, plastic, white goods, and tree limbs, while excluding junk vehicles, dead animals and hides, demolition or construction materials, and hazardous or toxic waste. The application goes to the city auditor and must list the applicant's name, firm, residence, business address, the hauling vehicles, and the site or warehouse where materials will be stored or processed.

The permit fee is set by city council resolution, and the permit term is three years, longer than the one-year term for rubbish and white-goods haulers under § 13-0406.1. Before a permit issues, § 13-0407(6) requires the applicant to sign a contract with the city that includes a performance bond, proof of liability coverage, and payment to the city of a stipulated percentage of the gross revenue the collector earns from collecting and selling recyclable materials. The permit can be revoked for a violation relating to the handling of recyclable materials after certified-mail notice, with the holder able to demand a council hearing within ten days, and permits are nontransferable, so a sale or lease of the collector's business requires surrendering the permit to the city auditor within three days.