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Recycling, Garbage, and Organics

Quick Reference

	Got Bulky Waste? Recology Arcata residential single-family home customers are entitled to two bulky item pick-ups per year at no extra charge! Collections are scheduled by calling (707) 442-5711, and you are allowed up to 2 cubic yards or 500 lbs in total per pick up. No single item can exceed 200 lbs. The following items are accepted for bulky item pick up: Appliances, furniture, carpets, mattresses, household appliances including refrigerators, ranges, washers & dryers, water heaters, dishwashers, single item construction debris (doors, toilets, sinks, plumbing fixtures), lawn mowers (oil & fuel drained), up to 9 tires, and up to 2 cubic yards of bundled green waste. To schedule a pick up or get more information, call Recology Arcata at (707) 442-5711..
	Moving? Don’t dump and run! Please do not leave “free boxes” at the curb. Items left outside become garbage, costing the City and therefore you, thousands of dollars annually. If thrift stores don’t/can’t take your items, make sure to take it to the appropriate disposal site. For more information on how to minimize waste during your move, download the Don’t Dump & Run Brochure!
	Want to minimize food waste? The City of Arcata sells the Soil Saver, a backyard composting vessel for $35. This 32-inch tall composter is made out of 100% recycled material and includes a locking self-watering lid, 2 sliding doors, openings for aeration, and a free composting guide. The Soil Saver can be purchased at the City of Arcata Environmental Services Department. You must live within city limits and present water receipt/bill or rental contract/ receipt. Visit our food waste prevention page for more information on reducing food waste.
	Planning on eating out? If you plan on eating out, make sure to pack some reusable containers to store any leftovers from the meal. If you’re getting takeout, use your own clean durable reusables instead of the food vendor’s takeout containers and get a $.25 discount, thanks to the Single Use Disposable Foodware Ordinance. Learn more through the Single Use Disposable Foodware Ordinance Webpage where you can find Frequently Asked Questions and find fiber based alternatives to plastic.
	Got recycling questions? What is and isn’t allowed in the curbside recycling bin? Download the Curbside Recycling Guideline to help you properly sort your recyclables. For more information about recycling, check out the main recycling and garbage page.
	Are you sick of junk mail? Learn how you can reduce junk mail and minimize paper waste by downloading our junk letter infographic.
	Looking for more information? Zero Waste Humboldt, a local non profit focusing on waste reduction solutions, is a great resource!