Rigid 6-pack holders can be reused, or thrown away in the trash. 6-Pack rings should always be thrown in the trash. 

They should NOT be included in curbside or drop-off recycling. Cutting the rings helps minimize the risk of harming wildlife.

Air conditioners that contain freon must be specially recycled. If the air conditioner is in good condition, consider reuse options. 

Air conditioners can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

State law requires freon be removed by an appropriately licensed company before disposal.

Air conditioners should not be put in curbside recycling or trash.

Rinsed aluminum cans, foil, and aluminum food containers can be recycled in curbside recycling or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Aluminum cans should be recycled in their original shape. Aluminum foil should be loosely crumpled prior to recycling. All other aluminum (pans, etc.) should be recycled at local scrap metal recyclers.

Aluminum cans are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below.

Cans should be empty and dry. Cans should be recycled in their original shape (not crushed or flattened) so they can be properly sorted at the recycling plant.

Aluminum foil can be accepted in curbside recycling or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Foil should mostly free of food waste or other contaminants. Lightly crumple up the foil before recycling; do not flatten.

Aluminum pie pans and other similar aluminum food containers can be accepted in curbside recycling or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Foil should mostly free of food waste or other contaminants.

Aluminum take-out containers, if rinsed and reasonably clean, can be recycled in curbside recycling or at drop-off centers.

Aluminum take-out containers that are soiled with lots of food residue should be thrown away in the trash. 

Amazon mailers can be reused. Amazon mailers completely made of plastic can be recycled at the drop off locations listed below along with plastic bags and plastic film. 

Other types of envelopes completely made of bubble wrap can also be recycled as plastic film.  However foil bubble mailers that are made of foil / reflective silver material are NOT recyclable and should be thrown away in the trash. They should never be put in plastic film bins or in curbside recycling. 

Envelopes made of Tyvek material or envelopes with paper on the outside and bubble wrap on the inside cannot be recycled and should be reused or thrown away in the trash. 

Live rounds of ammunition or any other explosives should be disposed of as hazardous waste at the drop-off locations listed below.

Contact the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office before moving explosive or shock sensitive materials.

Antifreeze contains hazardous and poisonous chemicals which can be harmful to human health and the environment if disposed of improperly.

DO NOT pour antifreeze down your sink or toilet and NEVER pour antifreeze into the storm sewer or in your street!

Please visit one of the specified locations to have it properly disposed of. 

Antifreeze can be disposed of at the following locations. Many local mechanics also take antifreeze for recycling – contact shops for details.

Antifreeze can be harmful to human and animal health and the environment. DO NOT pour antifreeze down your sink or toilet and NEVER pour antifreeze into the storm sewer or in your street. Transport antifreeze in a sealed plastic jug.

Antifreeze bottles should be thrown away in the trash.

The bottles contain traces of hazardous chemicals and therefore cannot be recycled into new food-grade plastics. DO NOT pour antifreeze down your sink or toilet and NEVER pour antifreeze into the storm sewer or in your street. Unused antifreeze can be recycled at these locations.

Art supplies in gently used condition can be donated for reuse.

Certain art supplies, such as paints or other chemicals may be considered household hazardous waste (HHW), and should be disposed of accordingly.

Asphalt can be brought to one of the following centers for recycling. Fees may apply; contact the center for specific details.

Many automotive parts can be recycled as scrap metal. Contact drop-off locations to find out if a specific part is accepted.

Automotive tires and batteries SHOULD NOT be placed in the trash or recycling. 

Tires can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Most auto tire businesses and many mechanics accept used tires for a small disposal fee; contact specific stores for details.

It is illegal in the state of Colorado to dispose of tires in the trash because they cause issues in landfills. 

Cars & trucks can often be donated to local organizations or certain secondhand stores for resale. Certain scrap metal recyclers may also accept cars & trucks to recycle. Contact locations listed for their drop-off guidelines.

Automotive batteries can be recycled at many auto repair shops or at the following drop-off locations.

They contain lead which can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly.

Automotive fluids should be recycled as household hazardous waste at the drop-off locations listed below. They contain hazardous chemicals which can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. They SHOULD NOT be poured down the drain or put in the trash or recycling.

Motor oil and antifreeze can be brought to many local auto part stores or other local drop-off centers for recycling.

Baking glassware such as Pyrex dishes in usable condition should be donated to local thrift stores or otherwise reused. If unusable they should be thrown away in the trash.

They should not be added to curbside recycling. They are made of a different material than glass bottles and jars.

100% of baling twine is recyclable! Used twine can be brought to a collection site either as loose twine or in bags. Before dropping off, please remove any chunks of hay or trash from the twine. 

The following businesses accept used Baling Twine for recycling:

Used twine can be brought to a collection site either loose or in bags.

100% of baling twine is recyclable. Remove any chunks of hay or trash from the twine before dropping off. Recycling baling twine ensures it won’t injure wildlife or livestock.

Many local retail stores and the drop-off locations listed below accept alkaline batteries free of cost. Contact specific location for details.

Since the late 1990s, alkaline batteries have no longer been manufactured using heavy metals, meaning they can be thrown away in the trash, although recycling is preferable. All other types of batteries are manufactured with heavy metals and must be recycled.

No matter whether a battery is rechargeable or not, it is safest to dispose of it as household hazardous waste. 

You can learn more about battery dangers, proper storage and recycling at Larimer County's battery recycling webpage. 

View the Battery Recycling Guide. 

View information about business hazardous waste disposal options. 

Button batteries should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste at the following drop-off locations. Contact location for details of what can and cannot be accepted.

These batteries contain heavy metals which can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. Always tape button batteries with clear tape prior to dropping them off for recycling. 

Batteries should NEVER be included in curbside recycling or trash, as they can be highly flammable if not handled safely. 

You can learn more about battery dangers, proper storage and recycling at Larimer County's battery recycling webpage. 

View the Battery Recycling Guide. 

View information about business hazardous waste disposal options. 

Lithium Ion batteries can be disposed of at the following drop-off locations. All Batteries must be taped on the ends with clear tape before being dropped off at these locations for the safety of staff and visitors. Contact location for details of what can and cannot be accepted.

Lithium Ion batteries should NEVER be included in curbside recycling or trash, as they can be highly flammable if not handled safely. These batteries have caused multiple fires at recycling facilities in recent years.

No matter whether a battery is rechargeable or not, it is safest to dispose of it as household hazardous waste. 

You can learn more about battery dangers, proper storage and recycling at Larimer County's battery recycling webpage. 

View the Battery Recycling Guide. 

View information about business hazardous waste disposal options. 

Batteries can be disposed of at the following drop-off locations. Contact location for details of what can and cannot be accepted. 

Batteries should NEVER be included in curbside recycling or trash, as they can be highly flammable if not handled safely.

No matter whether a battery is rechargeable or not, it is safest to dispose of it as household hazardous waste.

You can learn more about battery dangers, proper storage and recycling at Larimer County's battery recycling webpage. 

View the Battery Recycling Guide. 

View information about business hazardous waste disposal options. 

Rechargeable batteries should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste at the following drop-off locations. Contact location for details of what can and cannot be accepted.

These batteries contain heavy metals that can harm human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. Always tape the ends of rechargeable batteries with clear tape prior to dropping them off for recycling. 

Batteries should NEVER be included in curbside recycling or trash, as they can be highly flammable if not handled safely. 

You can learn more about battery dangers, proper storage and recycling at Larimer County's battery recycling webpage. 

View the Battery Recycling Guide. 

View information about business hazardous waste disposal options. 

Charcoal BBQ grills in working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact stores before donating to verify what they can accept.

Grills no longer in working condition can be recycled as scrap metal at drop off locations listed below.

BBQ gas grills in working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact store before donating to verify what they can accept.

Grills no longer in working condition can be recycled as scrap metal at drop off locations listed below.

Note that propane tanks are considered hazardous waste and may need to be recycled elsewhere.

Used bicycles can often be repaired, donated to local thrift stores, or sold to local bike repair shops for refurbishment. Check with local stores and bike shops for donation options.

Bicycles that cannot be repaired can be recycled as scrap metal at local scrap metal recyclers, or at one of the drop-off locations listed below.

Used bicycles can often be repaired, donated to local thrift stores, or sold to local bike repair shops for refurbishment. Check with local stores and bike shops for donation options.

Bicycles that cannot be repaired can be recycled as scrap metal at local scrap metal recyclers, or at one of the drop-off locations listed below.

Bicycle tires can be recycled the same way as automotive tires. They should be recycled at local drop-off locations. Fees may apply; contact location for details.

Bicycle tires can be recycled the same way as automotive tires. They should be recycled at local drop-off locations. Fees may apply; contact location for details.

Bicycle tubes can be recycled at the following drop-off locations. They SHOULD NOT be included in curbside recycling as they can damage equipment at the recycling sorting plant.

If possible, binders should be reused. If not in usable condition, they should be thrown away in the trash. Three-ring binders are not recyclable and should NOT be included in curbside recycling.

Blister packs, or the type of plastic packaging for pills and other small items, should be thrown away in the trash. They are not locally recyclable.

Blueprints are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below.

Hardcover books in gently used condition can be donated to libraries, Arc and Goodwill thrift stores, and other local programs for reuse. Many textbooks can be sold online.

Hard cover books not in useable condition can be recycled at the following drop-off locations (fees may apply). Do not put hard cover books in curbside recycling. If they can not be donated or dropped off elsewhere they should be thrown away in the trash. 

Paperback books can be recycled in curbside recycling.

Gently used books can be donated to used bookstores or libraries. Paperback books can also be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Hard cover books can be donated or recycled at these locations.

Branches can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below for a fee. Contact locations for details of what can be accepted. Treated or painted wood is not accepted at these locations. 

Bricks and pavers that are still in usable condition can be dropped off to certain local thrift stores for resale and reuse.

Bricks and pavers not in usable condition can be dropped off to one of the following drop-off locations for recycling. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

Bubble wrap and air pillows can be reused. They can also be recycled at the drop off locations listed below along with plastic bags and plastic film.

Bubble wrap SHOULD NOT be included in curbside recycling as it can damage equipment at the recycling sorting plant. Large amounts of bubble wrap, air pillows, or other plastic packing materials can cause an entire load of recyclables to be thrown away.

• Large plastics such as Big Wheels® and plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets (no residue), crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers. 

• Must be the size of a five-gallon bucket or larger but must also be less than 4 feet by 4 feet (can be cut to meet these dimensions).

• In some cases, these plastics may not be marked with a #2, so look for them to be opaque with a matte finish and hollow inside. They are made with a mold, so will likely have a seam where two halves were joined.

• Non-plastic parts must be removed, including straps, padding and fabric. Items requiring disassembly will be charged a $5 fee.

• NO flower pots without a #2, inflatable pools or other inflatable plastics, water beds, chew toys, CD jewel cases, small toys such as action figures, etc.

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE), #5 (PP), or #4 (LDPE) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

These types of plastics can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Be sure to remove all metals (e.g. screws, bolts, axles, bins, hinges, handles; etc.) and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Bulky rigid plastics DO NOT include: PVC pipe, foam of any kind, flower pots, inflatable pools or other inflatable plastics, water beds, chew toys, CD jewel cases or small toys such as action figures, etc.

If not listed here, contact drop off locations before visiting to verify if they can take a specific item.

Cameras & camcorders in working condition can be donated to local thrift shops. Contact specific locations before donating. They can also be recycled along with other electronics at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Candy wrappers and other snack wrappers should be thrown away in the trash. They are not locally recyclable. 

Used car seats that are expired, damaged, recalled, or unusable should be thrown away in the trash, or dropped off for disposal at the drop off locations listed below. 

Car seats have a limited lifespan and should be taken out of use if they are expired, recalled, or have been in a significant crash. Please keep them out of garage sales, thrift stores, and the recycling bin. They are not an item that can be reused or recycled. 

Corrugated cardboard is accepted in curbside recycling or at the specified locations. With the 2013 Cardboard Ordinance it is illegal to throw cardboard in the trash in Fort Collins.

This excludes Waxed cardboard, which is used to ship bulk produce, and food-contaminated cardboard, such as heavily soiled/greasy pizza boxes, from the ordinance. These materials are not considered recyclable cardboard and should be composted or landfilled.

Note: Pizza boxes that are not significantly soiled should be recycled.

Boxes in good shape are usually accepted as donations at many local pack and ship businesses.

For more information visit: https://www.fcgov.com/recycling/cardboard.php

Cardboard can be included in curbside recycling or delivered to the drop-off locations listed below. Boxes in good shape can be reused. Consider posting boxes on Craigslist and other social media sites for reuse.

It should be flattened before recycling. For curbside recycling, large cardboard should be cut down until it will fit loosely in the curbside bin. For drop-off, very large pieces should be cut to a maximum of 4’ x 4’.

Per a 2013 City ordinance, it is illegal to throw cardboard in the trash in Fort Collins. Non-recyclable cardboard is excluded from this requirement, such as waxed cardboard (used to ship bulk produce), or food-contaminated cardboard (such as heavily soiled/greasy pizza boxes). The non-recyclable cardboard should be composted or landfilled.

Gently used rugs and carpet can be donated to local thrift stores (check with specific store for donation guidelines). Carpet in non-useable condition should be thrown away. There are currently no local locations that can accept it for recycling.

Gently used rugs and carpet can be donated to local thrift stores (check with specific store for donation guidelines). Carpet in non-useable condition should be thrown away. There are currently no local locations that can accept it for recycling.

Carpet padding in non-useable condition should be thrown away. There are currently no local locations that can accept it for recycling.

Thick, rigid paperboard tubes such as carpet roll tubes or those used for concrete should be reused or thrown away.

These tubes cannot be recycled curbside or at recycling drop-offs because they are filled with a large amount of glue making them too rigid to bend easily. They will damage recycling sorting equipment. 

Cartons are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below.

Recyclable cartons include juice boxes, milk cartons, soup cartons, soy milk cartons, etc. Cartons from refrigerated foods as well as shelf-stable foods can be recycled. Foil-lined cartons are ok to recycle.

Cartons must be empty and dry. To be properly sorted at the recycling plant, they should not be crushed or flattened. Plastic spouts on cartons do not need to be removed before recycling.

Ice cream cartons are lined with a different type of plastic can CANNOT be recycled.

CD & DVD players and other media players in working condition can be donated to local thrift shops or can be recycled with other electronics at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Commercial movies or audio books in gently used condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact store for specific donation guidelines before dropping off. Personally recorded CDs or DVDs cannot be donated, and are not accepted in our local recycling system. They should be thrown away in the trash.

CD cases (jewel cases) and DVD cases are also not recyclable locally and should also be thrown away.

Cell phones can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Many retail stores, electronic, and cell phone stores also offer in-store recycling options. Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Ceramic dishes in usable condition should be donated to local thrift stores or otherwise reused. Dishes not in usable condition should be disposed of in the trash.

Cereal liner bags, and other similar plastic liner bags are made of unrecyclable plastic. They should be thrown away in the trash.

Chip bags and other similar snack bags should be thrown away in the trash. They are not locally recyclable. 

Chip cans should be thrown away in the trash. They are made of mixed materials making them unrecyclable. The can, lid and foil seal should all be disposed of in the trash.

Strands of holiday lights can be recycled at scrap metal recyclers, even with bulbs attached. Please bundle up strands.

Strands of holiday lights can be recycled with scrap metal, even with bulbs attached. They can be brought to local scrap metal recyclers and drop-off locations listed below. Tie / bundle up the strands before recycling.

Holiday lights should not be in curbside recycling, as they can damage equipment at the recycling sorting plant.

Artificial Christmas/Holiday Trees that are in good, usable condition can be donated for reuse. Trees that cannot be donated should be thrown in the trash.

Recycle your live Christmas tree at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply, contact specific location for details. 

Be sure to remove all items from tree before dropping off, including: lights, wire, hooks, ornaments, tinsel, and fake snow

Live Christmas trees can be recycled at specified local drop-off locations. Fees may apply, contact specific location for details. 

Be sure to remove all decorations from trees before recycling, including: lights, wire, hooks, ornaments, tinsel, and fake snow.

Artificial trees in good condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact store before donating for details.

Plastic clam shell containers like those used to hold berries are not currently recyclable locally due to changes in international recycling markets and should be thrown away. Community members may choose to avoid them by selecting reusable options and avoiding products packaged in clam shells and other low-value plastics. 

Many local thrift stores, charities, and donation boxes accept gently used clothing and fabrics for reuse. Contact specific locations for donation guidelines. If the items are not reusable (i.e. are torn, stained, or in bad condition) they should be thrown away.

DO NOT put clothing or fabric in recycling bins as it can damage equipment at the recycling sorting plant.

Coffee grounds can be composted in backyard compost piles or collected by local food scraps compost service providers.

Coffee grounds and other food waste SHOULD NOT be put in recycling, as it will contaminate the recyclables, forcing them to be thrown away.

Compostable serving ware and dishware, along with other compostable containers, should be thrown away in the trash or composted through a commercial composting company.

Compostable products, like those made from corn or bagasse, are NOT recyclable and should never be included in curbside recycling or taken to recycling drop-off locations. This includes plates, bowls, cubs, silverware, straws, napkins, and other serving ware labeled as compostable.

These products are not meant to be recycled.  They are intended to break down when added to a commercial composting system. Backyard composting systems and other small residential composting systems do not get hot enough to break down compostable serving ware.

If seeking environmentally-preferable options, always choose reusable items. Consider bringing reusable utensils with you to avoid use of plastic ones. You can also bring a Tupperware-style container with you when eating out to take leftovers home.

Computer accessories can be recycled with other electronics at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply – contact specific location for details.

Computer accessories include keyboards, computer mice, speakers, cables & other connectors, hard drives, and other computer peripherals. All of these items are considered electronic waste.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronic waste  in the trash as it contains toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Make sure to protect your sensitive information by erasing any data from electronics before recycling them. Some electronics recyclers also offer secure data destruction; contact locations to see if they offer this service.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Computer monitors can be recycled as ewaste at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply – contact specific location for details.

Computer towers can be recycled with other electronics at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply – contact location for details.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Make sure to protect your sensitive information by erasing any data from electronics before recycling them. Some electronics recyclers also offer secure data destruction; contact locations to see if they offer this service.

Concrete from construction and demolition projects can be brought to one of the following centers for recycling.  Fees may apply; contact location before dropping off.

Many locations do not accept concrete that contains rebar; contact specific center for recycling guidelines.

Construction paper can be included in your curbside recycling bin, or in the mixed paper bin at the drop-off locations listed below.  No glitter or excessive amounts of non-paper materials should be attached to the construction paper.

Paper should be left flat in order to be properly sorted at the recycling plant.

Scraps of paper smaller than a business card or standard post-it note are unlikely to get recycled and should be thrown away in the trash. They will fall through the sorting equipment at the recycling sorting facility.

Used cooking oil and grease can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Oil should be free of contaminants such as water or food scraps.

Do not put fats, oils, and grease down the drain.

Used cooking oil and grease can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Oil should be free of contaminants such as water or food scraps.

Do not put fats, oils, and grease down the drain.

Cords and cables in working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact stores before donating to verify what they can accept.

Cords and cables no longer in working condition can be recycled as scrap metal at drop off locations listed below.

Signs made of corrugated plastic - like election signs - should be thrown away as there is currently no local option to recycle them.

Metal wickets can be removed from the signs and recycled as scrap metal.

Signs made of corrugated plastic - like election signs - can be dropped off for recycling at limited locations. See details below.  

Metal wickets can be removed from the signs and recycled as scrap metal.

Dishwashers and other appliances such as stoves, ovens, washing machines, and dryers can be recycled as scrap metal at the drop-off locations listed below. If the appliance is in good condition, consider trading it in or selling it to a used appliance store. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

Disinfectant wipes should be thrown away in the trash. They are not recyclable.

Disposable face masks should be thrown away in the trash (sealed in a trash bag). 

Disposable gloves, including latex and plastic gloves should be thrown away in the trash (sealed in a trash bag).  

Electronics in working condition can be donated to local thrift shops. Contact specific locations before donating. They can also be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

erosol cans are accepted in curbside recycling or at the drop-off locations listed below. Cans should be completely empty of all contents. Cans should not be crushed or flattened.

Unused hazardous products such as spray paint or chemicals should not be in the trash or recycling; they should be disposed of at the Larimer County Hazardous Waste Facility.

Empty aerosol cans are accepted in curbside recycling or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Cans should be completely empty of all contents. Cans should not be crushed or flattened. Unused hazardous products such as spray paint or chemicals should not be in the trash or recycling; they should be disposed of at the Larimer County Hazardous Waste Facility.

Envelopes with bubble wrap on the inside and paper on the outside should be reused or thrown away in the trash. They are not recyclable locally.

Extension cords in working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact stores before donating to verify what they can accept.

Extension cords no longer in working condition can be recycled as scrap metal at drop off locations listed below.

Used eyeglasses can be donated for reuse.

Used eyeglasses can be donated for reuse.

Fill dirt can be accepted for reuse at the locations listed below. Loads of dirt should be clean and uncontaminated with other material. Contact specific location for details.  

Fire extinguishers can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below.

Fire extinguishers SHOULD NOT be disposed of in the trash or curbside recycling. They must be safely disposed of. Any pressurized container can be hazardous.

Flammable liquids should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Hazardous wastes pose a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly. They should never be placed in curbside recycling or at any recycling drop off center.

Foam, such as inside foam cushions, should be thrown away in the trash. It is not recyclable and should not be included in curbside recycling.

FOAM PACKING PEANUTS are not recyclable in the Fort Collins recycle stream.

However, they are usually accepted as donations at many local pack and ship businesses.

Foam packing peanuts should be reused or taken to one of the drop-off locations listed below for reuse. If reuse is not an option, they should be thrown away in the trash. 

Foil coffee bags should be thrown in the trash.

The bags are made of mixed materials that cannot be properly recycled at the sorting plant. 

Food grade Styrofoam (polystyrene) and other Styrofoam to-go containers and cups should be thrown in the trash. They cannot be recycled locally and are not biodegradable. 

When possible, avoid using Styrofoam containers altogether and opt for reusable containers! Consider bringing reusable containers (such as Tupperware) to restaurants for leftovers and a reusable mug for coffee on the go.

Food Waste Includes: Fruit/vegetable scraps, old fruit/vegetables, egg shells, coffee grounds, tea bags, old bread, food scraps, & expired de-packaged foods.

It DOES NOT Include: Any sort of packaging, animal wastes, meat, bones, grease, whole eggs, dairy products, and animal poop

Food waste can be composted in backyard composting systems or collected by a subscription composting service. Contact specific company for fees and list of items accepted. 

Food waste should never be included in curbside recycling bins or in bins at recycling drop-off centers. Too much food waste in a recycle bin can cause an entire truckload of recyclables to be rejected and thrown away into the trash!

Frozen food boxes and other containers meant to be frozen are made of paper combined with plastic and are NOT recyclable. Examples of these items include ice cream containers and frozen dinner boxes. These items should be thrown away in the trash.

Furnace filters should be disposed of in the trash. They are not recyclable, and should not be put in recycling bins. 

Furniture in gently used condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Certain thrift stores also offer pick-up of unwanted items. Contact individual stores to verify what they can accept.

If furniture is not suitable for reuse, you can haul it to the landfill or contact a company to haul it to the landfill for you. Trash companies and other companies will provide this service for a fee.

Never place furniture in dumpsters. Using a dumpster that you do not pay for is illegal. Even if you live in an apartment complex with a dumpster, do not dispose of furniture in the dumpster. They are designed for everyday waste. Apartment complexes will be charged extra for any furniture disposed of in their dumpsters.

Furniture should never be placed in recycling as it can damage recycling sorting equipment.

Garden hoses should be donated (if gently used) or thrown away in the trash.

They are not recyclable and SHOULD NOT be put in recycling bins. 

Garden hoses are a significant source of contamination in the recycling stream. When mixed in with other curbside recyclables and brought to the recycling sorting plant, hoses can get tangled in sorting equipment, damaging or breaking it.

Gasoline and other flammable liquids should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Hazardous wastes pose a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly. They should never be placed in curbside recycling or at any recycling drop off center.

Glass bottles and jars (clear, brown and green glass) are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below.

Metal lids are also accepted in curbside or drop-off recycling, but should be placed in the bin separate from the glass.

Do NOT include window glass, aquariums, ceramics, light bulbs, drinking glasses, or Pyrex ovenware – those items are made of different materials that contaminate glass recycling.

Glues and other adhesives should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Hazardous wastes pose a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly. They should never be placed in curbside recycling or at any recycling drop off center.

Used hearing aids can be donated locally and refurbished for reuse.

Helium tanks can be recycled as scrap metal at the drop-off locations listed below. Tanks must be empty. Contact locations for any further guidelines before dropping off.

To dispose of other types of gas tanks check with specific locations before dropping off. 

Herbicides should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Hazardous waste poses a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly. It should never be placed in curbside recycling, any recycling drop off, or the trash. 

Home insulation should be thrown away in the trash. It is not locally recyclable. 

Household cleaners, including ammonia, bleaches, floor cleaners, polish, and degreasers, should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Hazardous materials pose a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly. They should never be placed in the trash, nor in curbside recycling or to any recycling drop off center. 

Household items in gently used and working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Items must be clean, undamaged, and in good working order.

Some thrift stores also offer pick-up of unwanted items. Contact individual stores to verify what they can accept. Fees may apply for pick up.

Large plastic kitty litter buckets can be recycled as bulky rigid plastics at the drop-off locations listed below. Contact specific drop off locations before visiting to verify if they can take a specific item. They should not be included in curbside recycling. 

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

Be sure to remove all metals, including handles, and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Stickers and labels should be reused or disposed of in the trash.

Sticker and label backing should also be disposed of in the trash, as it is not recyclable.

Appliances such as stoves, ovens, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. If the appliance is in good condition, consider trading it in or selling it to a used appliance store. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and water coolers contain freon. State law requires freon be removed by an appropriately licensed company before disposal. See “Refrigerators” to see where these items can be properly recycled.

Lawnmowers can be recycled as scrap metal at the drop-off locations listed below. They should be emptied of liquids before recycling.

An item must be at least 50% metal to be recycled as scrap metal. This includes a wide variety of items, including water heaters, lawnmowers, wire, satellite dishes, metal shelves and bicycles. Most any item with a motor or power cord has enough metal in it to be recycled as scrap metal. If an item has a circuit board, it must be recycled with electronics.

The only metals that are accepted in curbside recycling are aluminum and steel cans, and aluminum foil. Other scrap metals should never be included in curbside recycling, as they can damage recycling equipment at the sorting facility. They should instead be recycled at local scrap metal recyclers.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and long fluorescent tubes contain mercury and require special recycling at drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

DO NOT put lightbulbs in curbside recycling.

Fluorescent light bulbs and tubes contain mercury and require special recycling at drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

DO NOT put lightbulbs in curbside recycling.

Halogen light bulbs can safely be thrown away in the trash.

DO NOT put lightbulbs in curbside recycling.

Fluorescent bulbs (CFLs & tubes) include chemicals that make them unsafe to throw away.

Incandescent light bulbs can safely be thrown away in the trash.

DO NOT put lightbulbs in curbside recycling.

Fluorescent bulbs (CFLs & tubes) include chemicals that make them unsafe to throw away.

LED light bulbs can be dropped off for recycling at the locations listed below. They can also be safely be thrown away in the trash; it's recommended to put the lightbulb in a smaller sealable bag first to contain shards if it breaks.

DO NOT put lightbulbs in curbside recycling.

Fluorescent bulbs (CFLs & tubes) include chemicals that make them unsafe to throw away. They must be dropped off at locations that accept them.

Depending on when a ballast was made, it may or may not contain hazardous materials.

Newer ballasts labeled with “No PCBs” can be safely disposed of in the trash or can be recycled at drop-off locations listed below.

Older ballasts and any not labeled as “No PCBs” should be disposed of as household hazardous waste. They should not be disposed of in the trash.

Note: PCBs stands for polychlorinated biphenyls

Lighters contain flammable liquids and should be disposed of as hazardous waste.

They should never be placed in trash or curbside recycling due to risk of fire.

Magazines can be included in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Certain types of manure – such as from sheep or goats and other herbivores – can be used for composting. Manure from pets or other meat-eating animals should not be composted due to the risk of pathogens.

If no reuse option is available for manure, it should be disposed of in the trash.

Bedbug-free mattresses and box springs can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees apply; contact location for details.

Medical equipment can be donated for reuse or properly recycled as hazardous waste or electronics.

Reusable veterinary and durable medical equipment / supplies that are non-hazardous (wheelchairs, crutches etc.), can be donated for reuse at the following locations. Contact the location to confirm that they can accept your item.

Medical equipment that is electronic often requires specialized facilities and technical personal due to its complexity and presence of hazardous materials. Contact manufacturer for disposal options. 

Medical equipment can be donated for reuse or properly recycled as hazardous waste or electronics.

Reusable veterinary and durable medical equipment / supplies that are non-hazardous (wheelchairs, crutches etc.), can be donated for reuse at the following locations. Contact the location to confirm that they can accept your item.

Medical equipment that is electronic often requires specialized facilities and technical personal due to its complexity and presence of hazardous materials. Contact manufacturer for disposal options. 

Mercury thermometers should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Mercury poses a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Mercury-containing thermometers should never be disposed of in the trash or recycling.

Metal barrels can be recycled as scrap metal at local drop-off centers & scrap metal recyclers. Barrels must be empty of all contents.

Metal caps and lids, such as those that come on glass bottles and jars, can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin and at the drop-off locations listed below. 

When placed in a curbside recycling bin, be sure to separate the lid from the glass bottle or jar and put it into the bin loose. That ensures that the magnets at the recycling plant can collect them. 

If you are collecting material to take to a scrap metal dealer, you can collect metal bottle caps in a metal can before dropping off. Dropping off metal caps and lids to a scrap metal dealer is a more direct route to be recycled, as they do not need to be sorted out from other mixed recyclables before going to their final destination for recycling.  

Metal coat hangers can be recycled as scrap metal at local drop-off centers & scrap metal recyclers.

Hangers should NOT be included in recycling as they can damage recycling sorting equipment.

Trash cans made of metal can be recycled as scrap metal at local drop-off centers & scrap metal recyclers.

Gently used microwaves and other small appliances still in working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact store for specific donation guidelines before dropping off.

Microwaves can also be recycled as scrap metal at drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply, contact specific location for details. 

Microwave popcorn bags are not recyclable and should be thrown away

Office paper, colored paper, magazines, newspapers, junk mail, and other mixed paper can be included in your curbside recycling bin, or taken to drop-off locations listed below and placed in the mixed paper bin. 

Paper should be left flat in order to be properly sorted at the recycling plant.

Items ok to include in mixed paper:

• Staples
• Paperclips (although is better to remove them for reuse)
• Plastic windows in envelopes
• Stamps and other adhesive labels attached to the paper
• Construction paper
• Blueprints

Items NOT recyclable with mixed paper:

• Items smaller than a standard sticky note or business card
  • They will fall through the cracks at the sorting facility and not be recycled
• Sheets of unused labels on their plastic-coated paper
• Plastic-coated paper used for label backing
• Carbon paper
• Cartons for milk, juice

Molded paper packaging (similar to paper egg cartons), can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Used motor oil is accepted at most auto parts stores. Contact specific store for details. It can also be recycled at one of the drop-off locations listed below.

Motor oil should be free of contaminants (gasoline, antifreeze, paint thinner, solvents, dirt, leaves, water, etc.) and placed in a clean, container with a tight-fitting cap (such as a one-gallon plastic milk jug) before recycling.

Used motor oil bottles and other plastic containers that hold motor oil should be thrown away. They cannot be recycled.

Motor oil bottles and other plastic containers that hold motor oil should be thrown away. They cannot be recycled as they contain traces of hazardous chemicals.  

Nalgene water bottles are primarily made from two types of plastic: HDPE (#4) and Tritan (a proprietary plastic that falls into the #7 "other plastics" category). Bottles with the number 4 in the chasing arrows symbol can go into your curbside recycling bin or be dropped off at facilities that accept plastic containers. Nalgene bottles that are not #4 plastics should be repurposed or put in the trash.

Find out more about local guidelines for recycling plastics here.

Many office and schools supplies can be reused or donated to local thrift stores. Contact store for donation guidelines before dropping off.

Supplies made of paper – such as file folders, printer paper, and note cards can be recycled as mixed paper in your curbside recycling bin or at recycling drop-off centers.

Small odds and ends – like scissors, pencils, erasers etc. – that cannot be reused should be thrown away. DO NOT include these items in recycling. 

Ovens and other appliances such as stoves, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. If the appliance is in good condition, consider trading it in or selling it to a used appliance store. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

Over-the-County Medications should be dropped off at the following locations to be safely disposed of.

Also check to see if your pharmacy has a take-back program for unneeded or expired medications. 

Do NOT flush your old or leftover medications down the drain. Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove these chemicals and compounds, so they can pass through to local waterways and have harmful effects on animals, humans and the environment.

POLYSTYRENE BLOCK FOAM is not recyclable in the Fort Collins recycle stream. The nearest location recycling this material is the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) in Boulder. If you are not already going to Boulder otherwise, the block Styrofoam can be landfilled. 

Styrofoam is a trademarked brand of closed-cell extruded polystyrene foam owned and manufactured by the Dow Chemical Company.  There are other manufacturers that make various polystyrene products like to-go containers, coffee cups, plates, meat and vegetable trays in grocery stores, coolers and polystyrene beads, etc.,  that are also not recyclable in the Fort Collins recycle stream – they are trash.

FOAM PACKING PEANUTS, however,  are usually accepted as donations at many local pack and ship businesses. 

Polystyrene (Styrofoam) block foam is not recyclable in Fort Collins and should be disposed of in the trash.

The nearest locations recycling this material are Green Girl Recycling (may pick up for a fee) in Longmont and the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) in Boulder, which can accept #6 white block foam (typically used for packaging electronics). If you are unable to take it to either location, block Styrofoam should be landfilled. 

Foam packing peanuts can be reused.

More information: The best way to handle Styrofoam is to not receive it in the first place. Contact the manufacturer of the item you received packed in foam and request they take their foam back or package their product in universally recyclable packaging, such as molded paperboard.

Full or partially full cans of liquid paint should not be placed in the trash, and are not accepted by most trash haulers.

Latex paints are water-based paints. Enamels, varnishes, shellacs, lacquers, stains, and sealers are all oil-based paints.

One way to identify paint as latex or oil-based is by reading the cleanup instructions on the can. If water can be used for cleanup, the paint is latex paint. If solvents, such as paint thinner or mineral spirits must be used, the paint is oil-based.

Paint should not be poured down the drain, dumped on the ground, or thrown in the trash. When poured down the drain, many of the chemicals in paint will not be treated by wastewater treatment or septic systems. The untreated chemicals may be discharged to lakes, streams, or ground water, and contaminate these waters.

Check with local schools, churches, or performing art centers. They make take donations of neutral color latex paints for drama productions or graffiti removal.

Highly flammable paints, such as epoxy base, stains, lacquers, varnishes, or shellacs, or paints containing heavy metals, such as cadmium or lead, must be taken to the Larimer County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility.

Reusable quantities of liquid paint in good condition can be dropped off to Larimer County’s Hazardous Waste “Drop ‘N’ Swap” Facility. 

Latex paints and other water-based paints can be taken to the following drop of locations. Recycling at these locations is free of charge through Paint Care Colorado.

One way to identify paint as latex (water-based) or oil-based is by reading the cleanup instructions on the can. If water can be used for cleanup, the paint is latex paint. If solvents, such as paint thinner or mineral spirits must be used, the paint is oil-based.

Highly flammable paints, such as epoxy base, stains, lacquers, varnishes, or shellacs, or paints containing heavy metals, such as cadmium or lead, must be taken to the Larimer County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility.

Liquid paint should never be disposed of in the trash. Paint should also never be poured down the drain or dumped on the ground. When poured down the drain, many of the chemicals in paint will bypass wastewater treatment or septic systems and may contaminate lakes, streams, or ground water.

Reusable quantities of paint can be dropped off to Larimer County’s Hazardous Waste “Drop ‘N’ Swap” Facility. 

Oil-based paints and lacquers should be disposed of as household hazardous waste. This includes enamels, varnishes, shellacs, lacquers, stains, epoxy base, sealers, and paints containing heavy metals, such as cadmium or lead.

These paints contain hazardous chemicals which are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

One way to identify paint as latex or oil-based is by reading the cleanup instructions on the can. If water can be used for cleanup, the paint is latex paint. If solvents, such as paint thinner or mineral spirits must be used, the paint is oil-based.

Paper bags can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below. Bags should be flattened. Do not recycle bags that are dirty or greasy.

Paper cups, including paper coffee cups, should be disposed of in the trash. These cups are coated with plastic, which makes them unrecyclable.

Paper cups marked “compostable” and should either be disposed of in the trash or composted in a commercial composting system (there are currently no commercial composting systems in Fort Collins).

Paper egg cartons can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Styrofoam egg cartons are not locally recyclable and should be disposed of in the trash.

Paper envelopes can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Details:

• Clear plastic windows are ok to recycle – no need to remove them
• Colored envelopes are ok to recycle
• Labels and stamps are ok to leave on envelopes
• Envelopes with metallic or glittery lining cannot be recycled
• Envelopes with bubble wrap lining can be reused but not recycled

See other listings for Tyvek envelopes 

Paper napkins should be disposed of in the trash or composted in a commercial composting system. Please check with specific compost companies to find out if they can accept paper napkins. 

Paper towels should be disposed of in the trash or composted in a commercial composting system. Please check with specific compost companies to find out if they can accept paper towels.

Paper towel and toilet paper tubes can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below. Tubes should be empty, without any other materials still stuck to them.

Thicker, rigid cardboard tubes – like carpet roll tubes – should be reused or disposed of in the trash.

Paperboard can be included in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Paperboard is single-layer cardboard, also known as chipboard. Recyclable paperboard items include cereal, food, gift, and shoe boxes, paper egg cartons, toilet paper and paper towel tubes.

The following items CANNOT be recycled:

• Frozen Food Boxes
  • Boxes designed for the freezer have plastic mixed in with the paper fibers
• Paper frozen juice containers
• Ice cream cartons
• Pet food bags
• Charcoal bags
• Paper plates, bowls, cups etc.

Signs made of paperboard can be separated from their metal wicket and paced in your curbside recycling bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

The metal wickets can be recycled as scrap metal at local scrap metal recyclers.

Plastic party trays and deli trays (such as those from grocery stores) are made from plastic that is not currently recyclable locally due to fluctuations in recycling markets and should be thrown away. Community members may choose to avoid them by selecting reusable options and avoiding products packaged in low-value plastics. 

Personal care appliances such as hair dryers, hair curlers, curling irons, electric shavers, straighteners, and other small electric appliances for personal care can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below.

They should not be put in curbside recycling. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details. 

Pesticides should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Hazardous waste poses a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly. It should never be placed in curbside recycling, any recycling drop off, or the trash. 

Pet food bags are not recyclable and should be thrown away in the trash. 

Pet waste should be disposed of in the trash.

Photo chemicals should be properly disposed of as household hazardous waste.

Photo chemicals contain hazardous materials that pose a risk to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Photographs and film should be disposed of in the trash.

They are made of non-recyclable materials and should not be included in recycling.

Pillows can either be reused or thrown away in the trash.

Throw pillows in reusable condition can be donated to local thrift stores for reuse. Contact specific locations for donation guidelines.

Bed pillows are generally not accepted at thrift stores or charities. They should be thrown way in the trash.

If a pillow is not reusable (i.e. torn, stained, or in bad condition) they should be thrown away in the trash.  

DO NOT put pillows in recycling bins as they can damage equipment at the recycling sorting plant.

Pizza boxes that are not significantly soiled with food waste can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Pizza boxes that are greasy or have food on them should be thrown away. If there is a large amount of grease on the bottom of the pizza box, tear off the greasy section to throw away or compost and then recycle the clean portion.

While Fort Collins municipal code bans the landfill disposal of cardboard, items that can’t be recycled, such as greasy pizza boxes, are excluded. Dirty or soiled cardboard should be composted or thrown in the trash.

Plastic barrels or plastic drums should be reused or should be disposed of in the trash.

Plastic buckets can be recycled as bulky rigid plastics at the drop-off locations listed below. Contact specific drop off locations before visiting to verify if they can take a specific item.

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

Be sure to remove all metals, including handles, and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Plastic caps & lids can be recycled, if attached to their empty plastic bottle or tub.

Caps not attached to their plastic containers should be disposed of in the trash.  Plastic caps by themselves are too small to be properly sorted at the recycling plant.

Be sure that the plastic bottle or tub is empty and dry before recycling.

CD and DVD cases (also known as jewel cases) should be reused or disposed of in the trash. They are not locally recyclable.

Plastic coat hangers should be reused or disposed of in the trash.

Important Message: Local Changes to Plastics Accepted in Curbside Recycling

The effects of recent changes in global recycling markets are now being felt locally.  End-markets for low-value plastic items are insufficient to handle the amounts generated. Until further notice, plastic containers labeled with a #3, #6, or #7 in the chasing arrows will be landfilled. Plastic containers labeled with #1, #2, #4, and #5 still have strong markets are should still be included in recycling as long as they are empty, clean, and dry. 

Learn more about the change at https://www.fcgov.com/recycling/curbside.php

Plastic containers #1 through #7 are accepted in curbside recycling or at one of the specififed locations. Do NOT include oil, chemical or pesticide bottles.

The primary way to know whether a plastic can be recycled curbside or at the drop-off center is by its shape. The only plastics that can be recycled curbside in Fort Collins are plastic bottles, jugs and tubs. Bottles include soda or water bottles, and shampoo jugs. Jugs include plastic milk jugs and plastic laundry jugs. Tubs include the solid white dairy tubs like those that contain yogurt or sour cream, as well as translucent tubs commonly used in delis or for liquidy takeout like soups. When in doubt if a tub is recyclable, you can double check by looking for a #5 in the chasing arrows on the container.

Always be sure that all containers are empty and dry before recycling. Do NOT recycle motor oil, chemical, or pesticide bottles.

Due to changes in international recycling markets, local recycling guidelines do not include low-value plastic containers. These are typically the thinnest and flimsiest types of plastics, such as plastic clamshell containers (that hold berries), plastic party cups, and plastic take-out containers. These items should be thrown away. Community members may choose to avoid them by selecting reusable options and avoiding products packaged in low-value plastics. 

Plastic cups, like thin plastic party cups are not currently recyclable locally due to changes in international recycling markets and should be thrown away. Community members may choose to avoid them by selecting reusable options and avoiding products packaged in low-value plastics. 

Sturdy plastic stadium cups with a #5 in the chasing arrows symbol can be recycled curbside or at drop-off centers, as long as they are empty and dry.

Plastic containers that hold disinfectant wipes are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-ff locations listed below if empty. Lids should be kept on before recycling.

Disinfectant wipes are NOT recyclable and should be thrown away in the trash.

Signs made of plastic film can be separated from the metal wicket and recycled in plastic film bins at the drop-off locations listed below or in plastic film bins at grocery stores and local retail stores.

The metal wickets can be recycled as scrap metal at local scrap metal recyclers.

Plant and flower containers can be dropped off at the following locations. Check with specific location for drop-off guidelines.

Be sure to remove all metals (e.g. screws, bolts, axles, bins, hinges, handles; etc.) and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Plastic grocery bags and plastic film can be recycled at most grocery stores, big box stores, or at one of the drop-off locations listed below. Ask an associate where to find drop-off bins as these vary from location to location.

Bags and film should be clean and dry, with stickers and labels removed.

Recyclable plastic film includes grocery bags, produce, bread, dry-cleaning, Ziploc-type and newspaper bags, along with industrial shrink-wrap, air pillows, and bubble wrap. Plastic wrapping such as that around paper towels and toilet paper can also be included with plastic film. Recyclable plastic film is often labeled with a #2 (HDPE) or #4 (LDPE) in the chasing arrows.

Plastic bags SHOULD NEVER be placed in curbside recycling or be used to bag recyclable items before placing them in your bin. Plastic bags and plastic film cause major issues at recycling sorting plants, tangling in recycling equipment and causing it to jam and break. Be sure to recycle your plastic grocery bags and other plastic film, just not in curbside recycling!

Plastic Halloween pumpkins should be reused or donated to local thrift stores. Check with locations for details. Pumpkins that cannot be reused should be thrown away in the trash.

Plastic jugs, including plastic milk jugs, laundry detergent, and juice jugs are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below.

Jugs must be empty and dry. Plastic caps can be left on empty jugs.

Plastic lawn furniture can be recycled as bulky rigid plastic at the drop-off locations listed below.

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

Be sure to remove all metals (e.g. screws, bolts, axles, bins, hinges, handles; etc.) and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Plastic pallets can be reused or thrown away in the trash. 

Plastic peanut butter jars are accepted in curbside recycling or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Jars should be empty and dry.  Jars do not need to be spotless, but the majority of food should be cleaned from the jar.  Soaking the jar in water is a good way to loosen stuck-on food. 

Plastic pet carriers can be donated for reuse or recycled as a bulky rigid plastic.

Many local thrift stores and some animal rescue centers accept pet carriers. Contact individual locations for details.

Plastic pet carriers can also be recycled as bulky rigid plastics at the drop-off locations listed below.

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

Be sure to remove all metals (e.g. doors, screws, bolts, axles, bins, hinges, handles; etc.) and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Plastic play structures can be donated to local thrift stores for reuse or recycled as a bulky rigid plastic.

Contact thrift stores for details on donation or recycle at the drop-off locations listed below.

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

Be sure to remove all metals (e.g. screws, bolts, axles, bins, hinges, handles; etc.) and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Plastic take-out containers are generally made of low-value plastics, which are currently not accepted in recycling due to changes in international recycling markets and should be thrown away. Community members may choose to avoid them by selecting reusable options and avoiding products packaged in plastic to-go containers and other low-value plastics. 

Gently used toys in working condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact store to verify if they can take a certain item.

Plastic toys in non-usable condition should be disposed of in the trash.

Plastic tubs, including yogurt tubs and sour cream tubs, are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below. Tubs must be empty and dry. 

Plastic tubes, like tooth paste tubes, should be thrown away in the trash. They are not locally recyclable. 

Porcelain, including sinks and toilets, in reusable condition can be dropped off to certain stores for resale and reuse or recycled at the drop-off locations listed below.

Porcelain MUST have all hardware removed (toilet seats, metal hardware, plastics, etc.) before recycling. Porcelain sinks cannot have a cast iron layer. Fees may apply; contact location for details.

Gently used pots and pans can be donated to local thrift stores or recycled as scrap metal.  

Contact store before donating to verify what they can accept.

Pots and pans that cannot be reused can be recycled as scrap metal at the drop-off locations listed below.  

Colorado law requires that unused household medications be disposed of at approved collection sites. 

Follow the link below to find collection locations. 

Do NOT flush your old or leftover prescription drugs or other medications down the drain. Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove these chemicals and compounds, so they can pass through to local waterways and have harmful effects on animals, humans and the environment.

Printer cartridges can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below.

Many manufacturers provide pre-paid envelops or mailing labels to return used printer cartridges for recycling.

Many retail stores that sell printer cartridges and toner will also take used ones back for recycling – check with stores for details.

Propane canisters can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Contact locations for requirements of canister disposal.

Propane canisters SHOULD NOT be disposed of in the trash or curbside recycling. They must be safely disposed of. Any pressurized container can be hazardous.   

Pumpkins can be composted in backyard compost systems or through local compost companies.

Plastic pumpkins can be donated to local thrift shops or be thrown away. They should not be included in recycling.

PVC and other construction-type plastic should be disposed of in the trash. It is not recyclable.

Receipt Paper can be recycled in curbside recycling bins or at the drop-off locations listed below as long as it is larger than a business card.

Items smaller than a business card fall through the cracks of the sorting equipment and do not get recycled. Receipts and other pieces of scrap paper smaller than a business card should be thrown away in the trash.

Reflective, silver bubble wrap, like the type that often comes in delivered meal kits, along with foil mailers and envelopes, are not recyclable and should be reused or thrown away in the trash. 

Refrigerators and freezers contain Freon, which requires special recycling to prevent environmental harm.

Because older appliances are often less efficient and can contribute to higher energy use, it is not recommended to sell them. Instead, consider trading them in through an appliance retailer that ensures proper disposal or recycling, or use the free Efficiency Works pickup option linked below. 

Refrigerators can also be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

State law requires Freon be removed by an appropriately licensed company before disposal. They should never be put in curbside recycling or trash.

Renewliner like that used in meal kits should be reused or thrown away in the trash. It is not locally recyclable. 

Reusable building supplies and other salvageable architectural materials can be taken to the drop-off locations listed below for reuse and resale.

Contact locations for fees and details of what they can accept.

Ribbons and bows should be reused or disposed of in the trash. They are not recyclable and can harm sorting equipment at the recycling plant.

Rigid cardboard tubes (like those used for concrete or carpet) and rigid cardboard corner pieces (like those used as corner protection in shipping) are not recyclable and should be thrown away in the trash.

These types of cardboard are filled with a large amount of glue making them too rigid to bend easily. 

Rock and gravel can be dropped off to the drop-off locations listed below for reuse and resale. Contact specific location for fees and details of what they can and cannot accept.

It can also be posted on Craigslist, Nextdoor and other online platforms for reuse. 

Large plastic storage tubs with a #2 or #5 on them can be recycled with bulky rigid plastics at the drop-off locations listed below.

Bulky rigid plastics describes plastic containers and items with a #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) in the chasing arrow symbol on them that are larger than what is acceptable in curbside recycling. This includes plastic play structures, plastic lawn furniture, plastic watering cans, laundry baskets, clean plastic buckets, crates, rigid backyard kiddie pools and plastic trash containers.

Be sure to remove all metals (e.g. screws, bolts, axles, bins, hinges, handles; etc.) and other non-plastic items before recycling.

Satellite dishes can be recycled as scrap metal at specified drop off locations.

Scrap metal items can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below.

An item must be at least 50% metal to be recycled as scrap metal. This includes a wide variety of items, including water heaters, lawnmowers, wire, satellite dishes, metal shelves and bicycles. Most any item with a motor or power cord has enough metal in it to be recycled as scrap metal. If an item has a circuit board, it must be recycled with electronics.

Scrap metal items that contain liquid, like lawnmowers, must be emptied before recycling. Fees may apply to items that contain Freon or other CFCs (freezers, air conditioners etc.).

Pressurized containers such as propane containers cannot be recycled as scrap metal, and should be specially recycled. See how to recycle propane containers here.

The only metals that can be included in curbside recycling are aluminum and steel cans and aluminum foil. Other scrap metal items should never be included in curbside recycling, as they can damage recycling equipment at the sorting facility.

Seed trays that cannot be reused should be thrown away in the trash. 

Seed trays are made from a plastic that is not recyclable. 

Asphalt shingles should be disposed of in the trash. There are currently no facilities in Colorado that are able to accept asphalt shingles for recycling.

Wooden shingles that are untreated, unpainted, and unstained can be recycled with wood at the locations listed below.

Call location to confirm that they can take shingles before dropping off.

Treated, painted, or stained wooden shingles must be landfilled.

Gently used shoes can be donated to local thrift stores and drop-off locations.

Shoes that cannot be donated should be disposed of in the trash.  

Brown crinkle paper, like that used for packing and gifts, is recyclable but should not go into your curbside bin. You can drop it off at a recycling center that accepts it; place the shredded paper loose (not bagged) in the mixed paper bin.

Do NOT include shredded crinkle paper in your curbside recycle bin. The paper literally falls through the cracks in the machinery at the sorting facility and will not be recycled.

Shredded paper is not accepted in curbside recycling, but can be recycled at various local drop-off locations. 

Shredded paper can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Place shredded paper loose in the office paper bin at the recycling drop-off centers listed below. 

Do NOT include shredded paper in your curbside recycle bin. The paper literally falls through the cracks in the machinery at the sorting facility, and will not be recycled

Note: These locations do not offer secure document shredding services.

Paper can be recycled 7-12 times. However, when shredded, its value is decreased and the number of times it can be recycled decreases drastically. In order to maintain the value of the paper fibers, shred only when necessary. Consider only shredding the documents (or parts of the documents) that contain sensitive information – and recycle the rest whole!

Single-Use coffee pods and capsules of all types should be thrown away in the trash. They are not locally recyclable. 

Single-use servingware should be disposed of in the trash.

Single-use servingware refers to paper & plastic plates, cups, bowls, napkins, straws, utensils, paper towels and other items used for eating that are designed to be thrown away after using.

Plastic utensils and plastic straws are not recyclable because there are no markets to recycle them.

Paper plates, cups, and bowls are coated in plastic, which allows them to hold liquids and food, but also renders them unrecyclable.

Paper napkins and paper towels are also not recyclable because they are meant to be wet and covered in food after being used. This moisture and food could cause a bale of paper waiting to be recycled to mold, ruining an entire bale of recyclable paper. Paper napkins and paper towels can be composted in commercial composting facilities. Contact residential compost companies to verify what items they can collect.

Single-use servingware labeled with a #7 PLA or as “compostable” should never be included in curbside recycling. Learn options for disposal here.

If seeking environmentally-preferable options, always choose reusable items. Consider bringing reusable utensils with you to avoid use of plastic ones. You can also bring a Tupperware-style container with you when eating out to take leftovers home.

Small appliances such as coffee makers, blenders, toasters, food processors, and mixers are considered scrap metal and can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below.

They should not be put in curbside recycling. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details. 

The most common type of smoke detector contains a small amount of Americium 241, a radioactive material. For this reason all detectors must, by law, be labeled as to radioactive content. However, it is legal to disposal of old smoke detectors in landfills or incinerators.   

You can also call the manufacturer for disposal. Federal law requires that the manufacturer take back the detectors. Most manufacturers accept small quantities at no charge.

Smoke detectors should be disposed of in the trash, or returned to their manufacturer. Most manufacturers accept small quantities at no charge. 

Batteries can be removed from smoke detectors and recycled at these locations. 

Snowblowers can be recycled as scrap metal at the drop-off locations listed below. They should be emptied of liquids before recycling.

An item must be at least 50% metal to be recycled as scrap metal. This includes a wide variety of items, including water heaters, lawn mowers, wire, satellite dishes, metal shelves and bicycles. Most any item with a motor or power cord has enough metal in it to be recycled as scrap metal. If an item has a circuit board, it must be recycled with electronics.

The only metals that are accepted in curbside recycling are aluminum and steel cans, and aluminum foil. Other scrap metals should never be included in curbside recycling, as they can damage recycling equipment at the sorting facility. They should instead be recycled at local scrap metal recyclers.

Sod can be composted in your backyard compost pile or at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply. Contact location for details.

Solar panels are not recyclable and should be disposed of in the trash.

Spiral bound notebooks can be recycled in your curbside recycle bin or at the drop-off locations listed below. Remove the cover & back of the notebook (paperboard covers can be recycled at these locations). The spiral does NOT need to be removed.

 Both metal and plastic bound spiral notebooks are accepted.

Gently used sporting goods can be donated to local thrift stores.

Spray paint should be disposed of as household hazardous waste at the drop-off locations listed below. They contain hazardous chemicals which can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. 

Empty spray paint cans can be recycled as empty aerosol cans in your curbside recycling bin. 

Stereos, speakers, and other sound equipment in working condition can be donated to local thrift shops. Contact specific locations before donating. They can also be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Stoves and other appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. If the appliance is in good condition, consider trading it in or selling it to a used appliance store. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

Stollers in gently used condition can be donated to local thrift stores or disposed of in the trash. Contact thrift stores for details.

*Strollers that are not in good condition or those that have been recalled should not be donated*

Styrofoam coolers are not locally recyclable and should be reused or disposed of in the trash.

This includes Styrofoam coolers used to ship medicines and meal kits. 

Paper insulation included in Sun Basket meal kit boxes are recyclable in your curbside recycling bin, or taken to drop-off locations listed below and placed into the mixed paper bin.

Insulation should be left whole.

“Sharps”, including syringes, hypodermic needles, and blades should be disposed of as household hazardous waste at the locations listed below. Improper disposal poses a threat to recycling and trash workers as well as to the environment.

They should NEVER be placed in a recycling bin, even if they are inside a closed, durable container. The presence of sharps or syringes in recycling can cause an entire load of recyclables to be rejected and sent to landfill.

Take-out food containers, including those made of aluminum, paper, plastic, or labeled as “compostable,” have different disposal options.

Aluminum take-out containers, if rinsed and reasonably clean, can be recycled in curbside recycling or at drop-off centers. Learn more here. 

Plastic take-out containers are generally made of low-value plastics, which are currently not accepted in curbside recycling or in bins at recycling drop-off centers. Learn more here. 

Paper take-out containers are generally coated with plastic, which means they are NOT recyclable. These containers should be thrown in the trash. Learn more here. 

Take-out containers labeled as “compostable” cannot be recycled, and should be composted in a commercial composting facility or thrown away. Learn options for their disposal here.

Telephones can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below with electronics.

Fees may apply; contact location before dropping off

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Telephone books can be recycled curbside or at drop-off locations listed below.

Televisions in working condition can be donated to local thrift shops. Contact location before donating.

Televisions can also be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Fees may apply. Contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of televisions and other electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Tile in usable condition can be dropped off to the stores listed below for reuse or recycling.  

Contact location to see if they can accept a specific type of tile, or if fees apply for recycling.

Tin or steel cans can be recycled curbside or at drop-off locations listed below.

Cans should be empty and dry. They should not be crushed or flattened, and it’s ok to leave their labels on.  

Tissue wrapping paper can be recycled curbside or at the drop-off locations listed below.

Do not include any glitter, ribbons, or bows.

Unopened and unused toiletries are accepted at some local thrift stores. Call locations before dropping off to verify if an item is accepted.

Opened / used toiletries should be thrown away in the trash. Empty plastic bottles, jugs, and tubs can be recycled in curbside recycling. 

Tools can be donated to local thrift stores or recycled as scrap metal. Contact stores verify if they accept certain tools.

Plastic Tupperware containers and other plastic food storage containers should be reused or donated if in usable condition. If they cannot be reused, they should be disposed of in the trash.

Tyvek envelopes should be reused or disposed of in the trash. There are no local recycling options for them. 

Vacuum cleaners can be recycled as scrap metal at the drop-off locations listed below.

An item must be at least 50% metal to be recycled as scrap metal. This includes a wide variety of items, including water heaters, lawnmowers, wire, satellite dishes, metal shelves and bicycles. Most any item with a motor or power cord has enough metal in it to be recycled as scrap metal. If an item has a circuit board, it must be recycled with electronics.

The only metals that are accepted in curbside recycling are aluminum and steel cans, and aluminum foil. Other scrap metals should never be included in curbside recycling, as they can damage recycling equipment at the sorting facility. They should instead be recycled at local scrap metal recyclers.

Video game systems can be donated to local thrift shops or recycled with other electronics at the drop-off locations listed below.

Fees may apply; contact specific location before dropping off.

In Colorado, it is illegal to dispose of electronics in the trash as they contain toxic components that are harmful to human health and the environment if not handled properly.

Commercial video tapes or cassette tapes in gently used condition can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact store for specific donation guidelines before dropping off.

Personally-recorded videotapes or cassette tapes, or commercial tapes that are not in good condition should be disposed of in the trash. Residents can also search online for national mail-in programs that offer recycling.

Vinyl fencing should be reused or disposed of in the trash. It is not recyclable.

Plastic vitamin and prescription bottles are accepted in curbside recycling or at drop-off locations listed below. Bottles must be empty.

Water filters should either be returned for their manufacturer for recycling or disposed of in the trash.  Contact manufacturer for details.

Water heaters can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Be sure to drain of water before recycling. If the appliance is in good condition, consider trading it in or selling it to a used appliance store. Fees may apply; contact specific location for details.

Waxed cardboard should be composted or disposed of in the trash.

Waxed cardboard is generally used to ship bulk produce. You can tell if an item is waxed cardboard if wax comes off on your finger when you scratch it. 

Tire rims can be recycled as scrap metal at local scrap metal recyclers and at the drop-off locations listed below.

White office paper can be included in your curbside recycling bin, or taken to drop-off locations listed below. 

Paper should be left flat in order to be properly sorted at the recycling plant. Colored ink on the paper is ok. Please remove paper and binder clips before recycling. Staples are ok to include. 

Window glass can be recycled ONLY at the drop-off locations listed below.

Window glass is a different type of material than glass bottles or jars, and CANNOT be recycled with them.

Wine corks can be reused for arts & crafts or DIY projects. Corks that cannot be reused should be disposed of in the trash.

Wire can be recycled as scrap metal at the locations listed below. Contact location for details on whether to bundle the wire prior to recycling.

If included in curbside recycling, wire and other “tanglers” cause damage to equipment at the recycling sorting facility.

Wooden pallets that are untreated and unpainted can be brought to the drop-off locations listed below for reuse and recycling. Contact location prior to dropping off.

Wood can be recycled at the drop-off locations listed below. Contact locations for details of what can be accepted. Treated or painted wood is not accepted at these locations. 

Wood waste includes branches, stumps, dimensional lumber, pallets, crates, shake shingles, and other wood scraps. 

Tree Limb Disposal from Spring Snow Storm: In response to the spring snow storm, the City is offering two drop off sites for free residential limb drop off. Learn more.

Treated or painted wood should be reused or disposed of in the trash. It is not accepted at local drop-off locations for recycling.

Untreated wood waste can be recycled at the following drop-off locations. Fees may apply; contact locations for specific guidelines.

Wood waste includes dimensional lumber, pallets, crates, shake shingles, scrap wood, stumps, and tree limbs. Some locations may accept composites, like plywood. Contact location for details.

Bags made of woven plastic, often used for animal feed bags, should be disposed of in the trash.

Wrapping paper can be recycled in your curbside recycle bin or at drop-off locations listed below.

Do not recycle any glittery or metallic wrapping paper, ribbons, or bows.

Consider wrapping gifts in newspaper, maps, cloth bags, reusable gift bags, or reusable gift boxes as alternatives to wrapping paper.

Yard trimmings include leaves, grass, weeds, twigs, branches, and other lawn trimmings.

Yard trimmings can be composted in your backyard composting system or taken to one of the locations listed below for composting. Fees may apply; contact the location for details.

Local trash haulers, including the City’s contracted hauler, also offer seasonal yard trimmings collection (including small branches up to 3 inches in diameter) from April-November for no additional charge. Contact your hauler to sign up. Learn more about the program here. 

Gently used yoga mats can be donated to local thrift stores. Contact stores for specific guidelines.

Yoga mats that cannot be donated should be thrown away in the trash.