Recycling FAQs

(burgundy or brown cart)

What size is the recycling cart?

The recycling cart is 64-gallons in size.

Can I have a different size recycling cart?

No, only one size of recycling cart is available. You may order a second recycling cart for an additional $9.62 per month.

Do I have to use the recycling cart?

Yes, the collection truck is designed in such a way as to match the recycling cart.

My house is too far from the main road to utilize a cart. I used to put crates into the trunk of my car and drive them down. What can I do?

Call VWM at 935-8900 to request recycling assistance.

What types of recyclables are accepted in the curbside program?

Beginning March 1, 2005, VWM collects the following commingled (single-stream) paper and container items: Newspaper, cardboard, white paper, colored paper, junk mail, magazines, cereal boxes, paper egg cartons, paper grocery bags, telephone books, juice boxes, juice cartons, milk cartons, glass, aluminum cans, aluminum foil, tin cans, steel cans, bi-metal cans, narrow-necked plastic containers and wide-mouthed plastic containers #1-5 & 7.

In addition, VWM collects used motor oil at the curb in company-provided containers. To request a container, please call VWM at 935-8900.

What types of recyclables are not accepted in the curbside program?

The following items may be recyclable, but are not included in VWM’s curbside program: plastic bags or plastic film wrap, and any styrofoam (including packaging materials). These items are not currently recyclable: tissues, napkins, Q-tips, sanitary napkins, paper towels, paper plates, paper cups, plastic utensils, plastic diapers, metal hangers.

Will VWM provide free oil containers?

Yes, VWM provides free oil containers. Call their office at 935-8900 to request up to two containers. VWM collects up to two used motor oil containers per week. The used motor oil must be in the VWM-provided containers.

What kinds of plastic are included in the recycling program?

All plastic bottles and containers marked with #1-5 & 7 on the bottom. This includes PET soda bottles, HDPE milk and water bottles as well as HDPE detergent and shampoo bottles, yogurt and margarine containers.

What about polystyrene (styrofoam) or plastic bags?

No polystyrene or plastic bags are collected in the VWM recycling program because the markets for these items are too volatile. However, plastic bags are recycled at most local grocery stores. Clean styrofoam peanuts are accepted by most packaging stores.

Can I recycle juice boxes?

Yes, VWM collects juice boxes as well as milk and juice cartons. Flatten these items and place in the recycling cart with containers.

Does cardboard have to be flattened and cut to a certain size?

Yes, please flatten your cardboard so that it easily fits inside the recycling cart. You may also have to cut it to size so that it will easily fall out of the cart when emptied by the recycling driver (suggested size 1' by 1'). Only unwaxed cardboard please.

Can I recycle envelopes with plastic windows?

Yes, you can recycle envelopes with plastic windows as part of the recycling program.

Do I have to remove staples or paper clips from my paper or cardboard?

No, staples and paper clips are permissible.

I already recycle by going to the drop-off center. Do I have to pay for the recycling service?

Yes, the recycling service is part of the basic garbage rate, whether or not you choose to use it.

Who operates the Walnut Creek Recycling Center? Hours and Days of operations?

VWM operates the Walnut Creek Recycling Center located on Lawrence Way. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Non-hazardous recyclables may be dropped off 24-hours a day.