Frequently Asked Questions
What is single-stream recycling?
Simply put: No more separating or sorting. The single-stream process allows you to place all your recyclables in one container.
Why is the One For All program being implemented?
We launched the program for several reasons. First, the job of pickup will shift from the county to the hands of private businesses; they'll do a better job and offer pickup of more than just glass, steel and tin cans. Second, we believe it's a good thing for the environment. Studies have shown that where single-stream recycling has been introduced, more people will recycle. Finally, we conducted research with our residents, and you told us that you want the convenience and flexibility of single-stream recycling.
What can I recycle?
Paper bags, newspaper and inserts, magazines, catalogs, junk mail, shredded paper, corrugated cardboard, cereal boxes, books and phone books, aluminum cans, aluminum foil, glass bottles and jars, Nos. 1 through 7 plastic (bottles, jars, tubs, detergent, condiments, yogurt, margarine, pet food, clear plastic food containers), tin and steel cans, metal pots and pans, empty aerosol cans, cereal boxes, soda cases, paper towel rolls, and aseptic gable top containers (milk, soup and broth containers).
Is anything unacceptable?
Window glass, drinking glasses, mirrors, ceramics or Pyrex, light bulbs, plates, frozen food containers, waxed paper or waxed cardboard, paper towels, plastic microwave trays, Styrofoam, packing peanuts, propane tanks, pizza boxes, needles or syringes, scrap metal, garbage, electrical cords, garden hoses, hangers, hazardous or biohazardous waste, oil or antifreeze containers, buckets.
Who will be picking up recyclables?
Your current waste hauler may offer pickup. If your waste hauler does not provide service to your location, click here for a list of haulers that provide service to your location.
Will the current drop-off sites remain open?
Yes. For now, all of the county's 27 drop-off sites will continue to operate and remain source-separated.
Where do I get a recycling bin?
You can obtain a 95-gallon bin from your hauler.
What should I do with bulky items or appliances?
Items such as large white goods will still need to be handled as before through your hauler, or you can deliver them to the transfer station or the landfill. White goods are another term for appliances and other salvageable materials such as washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, dishwashers, hot water heaters, stoves, sheet iron, tin and steel auto parts.
Where do my recyclables go?
They will be taken to the new single-stream recycling facility where they will be sorted, baled and sold on to manufacturers.
Why did a new facility need to be built?
Both the single-stream process and the new facility are being introduced to extend the life of the landfill and conserve our natural resources.