Wayne, NJ Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

Section 141-4 of the Wayne Township Code lists how each recyclable is separated and prepared for pickup. Commingled recyclables, defined to include glass bottles and jars, food, beverage and pet cans, all plastic bottles and containers, solid plastic outdoor furniture and plastic toys, go in a reusable metal or plastic container that the owner or occupant supplies. Mixed paper, which covers newspapers, books, junk mail, magazines, periodicals, scrap paper and corrugated boxes, must be securely tied in bundles with twine, rope or cord or brown bagged so it is not windblown onto public thoroughfares. Bundles should not exceed 30 pounds each or a height of 12 inches each.

Large items follow a different path. Persons call the Department of Public Works for a scheduled pickup of white goods and large metal items such as refrigerators, washers, dryers and stoves. Under § 141-6, refrigerators set at the curb for white goods pickup must have the doors removed. Tires go to the curb only after the fees are paid and arrangements are made with Public Works, and rims do not need to be removed.

Some items never go to the curb. Electronic waste, meaning desktop and portable computers, tablets, monitors, desktop printers and fax machines and televisions sold to a consumer, must be brought to the Wayne Recycling Center or another designated e-waste center. Used motor oil goes to a licensed private inspection center, oil retailer or service station with a collection tank, up to 5 gallons per day from any person. Automotive batteries are the responsibility of each party.

Once a resident places recyclables at the curb for Township collection, § 141-7 makes them Township property. Taking or tampering with the contents of a receptacle during the 24-hour period starting at 6:00 p.m. on the day before collection is unlawful for anyone other than the Township, its contractors or an authorized scavenger.