West Des Moines, IA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

Sections 4-6-8 through 4-6-10 spell out how designated recyclable materials move from a multi-family property to a recycling facility. Under 4-6-8(A), anyone transporting designated recyclable materials in the City must prevent or remedy spillage, keep transport vehicles or containers from being overfilled, and clean them often enough to avoid odors or unhealthful conditions, with loads secured so nothing falls onto streets or highways. Collectors removing full receptacles under 4-6-8(B) must return them to the property without creating a nuisance and must collect all recyclable materials they are responsible for.

Storage itself is governed by 4-6-9: owners or the entity contracting for solid waste service must keep enough containers on site, or on nearby premises with the owner's permission, to hold everything that accumulates between pickups, and every dwelling unit must have access to them. Containers must be durable, watertight, made of metal or plastic, marked with the recycling symbol and the type of material accepted, kept clean and in good repair, and fitted with lids where needed to prevent a nuisance; lids must stay closed except while material is being added or removed.

Bulk containers on wheels must stay blocked while unattended so they cannot roll, and their location cannot interfere with sidewalks, driveways, streets, or building entrances under 4-6-9(C). Section 4-6-10 requires materials to be separated and prepared consistent with recycling market requirements and placed apart from municipal waste for pickup at times agreed upon between the collector and the property.