Chicago

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Waste Management and Recycling

Sections

1. Overview of Waste Management in Chicago

The City of Chicago provides waste management services through the Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS). These services include garbage collection, recycling, yard waste disposal, and special waste programs. Private waste management companies also operate in the city, particularly for businesses and multi-unit residential buildings with more than four units.

2. Types of Waste Collected

Chicago's waste management system is divided into several categories:

A. General Garbage (Non-Recyclable Waste)

  • Whatโ€™s Included: Food waste, non-recyclable plastics, Styrofoam, soiled paper products, and other non-recyclable materials.
  • Collection Frequency: Weekly for most single-family homes and buildings with four or fewer units.
  • Container: Black garbage carts provided by the city.

B. Recycling

  • Whatโ€™s Included:
    • Paper: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard, office paper.
    • Plastics: Bottles, containers (marked #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, and #7).
    • Metals: Aluminum cans, steel cans, tin cans.
    • Glass: Bottles and jars.
  • Whatโ€™s NOT Included: Plastic bags, Styrofoam, greasy pizza boxes, electronics, and hazardous materials.
  • Collection Frequency: Bi-weekly for most residential properties.
  • Container: Blue recycling carts provided by the city.

C. Yard Waste

  • Whatโ€™s Included: Grass clippings, leaves, branches, and other organic yard debris.
  • Collection Frequency: Seasonal (typically April through November).
  • Container: Brown paper yard waste bags or bundles tied with string (no plastic bags).

D. Bulk Waste

  • Whatโ€™s Included: Large items like furniture, mattresses, and appliances.
  • Collection Frequency: On-demand (requires scheduling).
  • Procedure: Call 311 to request a bulk waste pickup.

E. Hazardous Waste

  • Whatโ€™s Included: Paint, motor oil, batteries, cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and electronics.
  • Drop-Off Location: Household Chemicals and Computer Recycling Facility (1150 N. North Branch Street).
  • Hours of Operation: Tuesdays (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM), Thursdays (2:00 PM - 7:00 PM), and the first Saturday of each month (8:00 AM - 3:00 PM).

3. Recycling Services

Chicago operates a "single-stream" recycling system, meaning all recyclable materials can be placed in the same blue cart without sorting. However, contamination (e.g., placing non-recyclables in the blue cart) is a significant issue, so itโ€™s essential to follow the guidelines strictly.

Key Recycling Tips:

  • Rinse containers to remove food residue.
  • Flatten cardboard boxes to save space.
  • Avoid placing recyclables in plastic bags; items should be loose in the cart.

4. Costs and Fees

  • Residential Properties (4 Units or Fewer): Waste management services, including garbage and recycling, are funded through property taxes, so there are no direct fees for most residents.
  • Multi-Unit Buildings (5+ Units) and Businesses: Waste management is handled by private companies, and costs vary depending on the provider and service level.

5. Scheduling Pickups or Drop-Offs

A. Regular Garbage and Recycling

  • No scheduling is required for regular garbage and recycling pickups. Simply place your black or blue cart in the designated alley or curbside location by 7:00 AM on your collection day.
  • To find your collection schedule, visit the City of Chicago Garbage and Recycling Schedule Tool.

B. Bulk Waste

  • Call 311 or use the 311 Chicago App to schedule a bulk waste pickup. Provide details about the items and their location.

C. Hazardous Waste

  • Drop-offs are only accepted at the designated facility (1150 N. North Branch Street). No appointment is necessary, but check the hours of operation before visiting.

6. Local Regulations and Considerations

  • Cart Placement: Carts must be placed in alleys or at the curb by 7:00 AM on collection day and removed promptly after pickup.
  • Contamination Fines: Improper use of recycling carts (e.g., placing non-recyclables in the blue cart) can result in fines or suspension of recycling services.
  • Snow and Ice: During winter, ensure carts are accessible and not blocked by snow.

7. Tips for Navigating Waste Management Services

  • Stay Informed: Use the cityโ€™s online tools to check your collection schedule and learn about service updates.
  • Label Your Carts: If you live in a shared building, label your carts to avoid confusion with neighbors.
  • Report Issues: If your garbage or recycling is not collected, report it via 311 or the 311 Chicago App.
  • Participate in Recycling Education: The city occasionally offers workshops and resources to help residents improve recycling habits.
  • Compost Food Waste: While the city does not offer curbside composting, private composting services are available, or you can compost at home.

8. Additional Resources

  • City of Chicago Waste Management Website: https://www.chicago.gov
  • 311 Chicago App: For reporting missed pickups, scheduling bulk waste collection, or asking questions.
  • Private Composting Services: Companies like Collective Resource Compost and WasteNot Compost offer subscription-based food waste collection.

By understanding and following these guidelines, you can effectively manage your waste and contribute to Chicagoโ€™s sustainability efforts. Let me know if you need further assistance!