Shoreline, WA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

The definitions section of Shoreline's Solid Waste Code, § 13.14.010, spells out exactly what qualifies as recyclable material: aluminum and tin cans, corrugated cardboard, glass containers, mixed paper, newspaper, recyclable plastic containers that previously held non-hazardous products, plastic films, polycoated cartons, and scrap metals. The definition then extends to two special items, motor oil and fluorescent bulbs, but only if they are properly packaged, set out for collection separately, and not commingled with the rest of the recyclables in the cart, treating them as their own sub-category rather than ordinary loose recyclables.

Section 13.14.175(B) turns that definitions list into an enforceable content rule for the curbside cart itself: only recyclable materials shall be placed in a recycling cart and set out for collection, which means household trash, yard debris, food scraps or hazardous items dropped into the recycling cart are noncompliant even though the program overall is voluntary to join. Mixed paper carries its own carve-out at § 13.14.010: paper combined with plastic, wax or foil, tissue paper, paper towels and food-contaminated paper are excluded from that category, so greasy pizza boxes or waxed cartons do not qualify as mixed paper for the cart. Large household appliances and bulky items are handled separately under § 13.14.190 rather than through the recycling cart.