Recycle Right
in Fairfax County
The curbside recycling bin program is designed to collect specific materials. The list below includes recyclable
items you should always place in the bin. Keep them loose, clean, and dry – never in plastic bags. Placing
unaccepted material or wet, dirty, sticky items in the bin reduces the recyclability of other material. You may
leave lids and labels on containers. If you are unsure if something is recyclable in the bin, remember, “When in
doubt, throw it out.” To avoid creating litter, use a lidded container. Private collection companies who serve our
community take recyclables to sorting facilities. These facilities often have different lists of acceptable items for
recycling. The items below are universally accepted and should ALWAYS be placed in the recycling bin.
* For specialty items such as food containers like tubs,
clamshells, and other plastics, please contact your hauler.
Some things should never be placed in the curbside recycling bin. Plastic bags can be returned to grocery stores,
and clothing, shoes, and small appliances can be donated.
Some things are recyclable but not in the curbside bin program. The I-66 transfer station in Fairfax and the I-95 landfill complex in Lorton accept phones and electronics, paint, batteries, household hazardous waste, scrap metal, cooking oil, motor oil, and much more. Proper disposal of this material protects collection workers and the environment.
For facility hours and locations, please visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/publicworks/recycling-and-trash
