Mandatory Recycling
Improper disposal of mandatory recyclables is a violation of Chapter 140 of the Tompkins County Code, and carries a fine of $100-$500 for the first offense, when convicted. This improper disposal includes commingling regulated recyclable paper and containers with each other or with solid waste.
First time offenders will receive a letter in the mail regarding this matter. According to the Tompkins County Code, "If any person is convicted of three violations of this law within a period of twenty-four months, each subsequent failure to comply with this law or the rules, regulations or orders promulgated pursuant to this law, shall be a misdemeanor as defined in Section 55.10 of the Penal Law. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor shall be liable for a fine of up to $2,500.00."
According to Tompkins County law, residents must recycle the following materials:
- Newspaper
- Glass bottles and jars
- Metal food and beverage cans
- Corrugated cardboard
Other materials that are accepted for recycling include:
- Mixed paper
- Boxboard
- Plastic bottles #1-#7
- #5 wide-mouth containers, such as yogurt and butter tubs
According to Tompkins County law, businesses must recycle the following materials:
- Newspaper
- Glass bottles and jars
- Metal food and beverage cans
- Corrugated cardboard
- White office paper
Other materials that are accepted for recycling include:
- Mixed paper
- Boxboard
- Plastic bottles #1-#7
- #5 wide-mouth containers, such as yogurt and butter tubs
