Hamden, CT Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

Beyond listing what must be recycled, § 94.42(C)(2) tells residents exactly how to present those materials: glass and metal food and beverage containers, newspapers, office paper, cartons, plastic containers numbered 1 through 7, aluminum foil and trays, cardboard, grass clippings, and leaves must go out for collection at the times and in the manner the Director of Public Works specifies. Subsection (C)(3) adds that containers must be emptied and cleaned before being placed out, and that no non-recyclable solid waste may be mixed with recyclable items in the same set-out.

Items like storage batteries, scrap metal, waste oil, and electronics are handled differently: residents must bring them to whatever drop-off location or locations the Director designates rather than setting them at the curb. Enforcement is graduated rather than punitive on the first offense. Under subsection (D)(2), a first violation in a calendar year draws only a written warning, a second offense within the same twelve-month period brings a $50 fine, and three or more offenses in that period escalate to a $100 fine. The Litter Enforcement Agent or the Mayor's designee issues all notices and fines, which are payable to the Treasurer, Town of Hamden, and a cited resident has ten days to file a written appeal with the town's Hearing Officer, which stays the fine until a decision issues.