GUIDE TO
COLLECTION SERVICES
RECYCLING, YARD WASTE, AND TRASH
2023
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
GUIDE TO SERVICES | 3
WHAT’S INSIDE
FOR RESIDENTS RECEIVING CITY COLLECTION
Reduce and Reuse Tips
FOR ALL CITY RESIDENTS
Services available to all City Residents
Weekly Collection Service
Recycling
Yard Waste & Other Organics
Trash
Reduce Plastic Bags
Recycling Drop-Off Centers
Glass
Food Waste Compost
Reduce Food Waste
Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Recycling Center
Batteries
Reduce Holiday Waste
Trash Drop-Off Center
Online Reduce, Reuse & Recycle Tools
How to Contact us
| GUIDE TO SERVICES
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ABOUT THE RESOURCE RECOVERY DIVISION
The City’s Resource Recovery Division staff and contractors are part of a larger team that works 24 hours a day,
seven days a week to keep our community livable, green and prospering. Please help the City sustainably recover
resources by following the Waste Management Hierarchy through Reduce, Reuse and Recycle!
Visit alexandriava.gov/ResourceRecovery to learn more.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Waste Management Hierarchy
WASTE MANAGEMENT HIERARCHY
Source Reduction & Reuse
Recycling/Composting
Energy Recovery
Treatment &
Disposal
Para leer esta guía en español, visite nuestro
sitio web o use su teléfono para escanear el
código QR.
ይህንን መመሪያ በአማርኛ ለማንበብ እባክዎን ድህረ
ገፃችንን ይጎብኙ ወይም ስልክዎን በመጠቀም የQR
ኮድን ይቃኙ።
For a Spanish or Amharic version of this Guide, please visit:
alexandriava.gov/ResourceRecovery
TRANSLATIONS
Recycling at Special Events
4 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
GUIDE TO SERVICES | 5
WEEKLY COLLECTION SERVICES
WHO IS ELIGIBLE
Alexandria residents living in detached, single-family homes,
duplexes, and some townhouses with four or fewer units
are required users of this fee-based service. Commercial
properties and condominium complexes are not required
users, but may participate at the City’s discretion for a fee.
HOW, WHEN, WHERE
How do I prepare my waste for collection?
• Recyclables should be placed loosely in a blue City-
provided recycling container *NO PLASTIC BAGS
• Yard waste should be placed in a customer-provided
reusable rigid container or paper yard waste bag
(purchased at grocery and hardware stores)
• Trash should be bagged and placed in a City-provided
container.
When do I put out my waste for collection?
Each customer is assigned a collection day depending
on their location in the City. Contact Alex311 or visit
alexandriava.gov/RefuseCollection for your collection day.
Trash, recycling, and yard waste must be set out no earlier
than 5 p.m. the day prior and no later than 6 a.m. the
morning of collection. Collection crews operate between the
hours of 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. except during the summer
when collection starts at 6 a.m. In weeks containing a
holiday, your collection may slide a day.
Where do I place my waste for collection?
For most residents, collection occurs in the public right
of-way at the front of the house, although some residents
receive alley collection. If you are unsure about where to
place your trash for collection, contact Alex311. Collection
containers are to be removed from public property by 7 p.m.
on your service day.
YOU MISSED MY COLLECTION!
Your preparation of material for collection is critical
for us to recover resources, ensure safe collection,
and leave the area neat and clean. If your material
is not collected by the end of the day, check for a tag
that explains why the City could not collect.
COMMON PROBLEMS INCLUDE
• Collection container, bag, or item is too heavy.
• Item is longer than 4 feet, such as carpet or lumber.
• Contains unacceptable items such as construction
debris, dirt, brick, and stones (residents should
call a private hauler to dispose of these items).
• Contains dangerous or messy liquids such as
gasoline and undried paint.
• Trash mixed with recycling
No tag? Request a “Missed Collection” ticket on
Alex311
WEEKLY COLLECTION SERVICES
HELP, I AM UNABLE TO TAKE OUT MY TRASH OR RECYCLING
If you are physically unable to take your trash or recycling to the curb
or alley, you may be eligible for an accommodation. If approved, staff
will remove trash and recycling from a container that is staged outside
your house at a convenient location for you. Call Alex311 to receive an
application. This service is not available for yard waste.
RECYCLING CART SIZES
While trash cart comes in one size (65 gallon), recycling carts come in
three different sizes.
Please refer to the image for reference.
REQUESTING SERVICES THROUGH ALEX311 - SEE PG. 27
RESIDENTIAL REFUSE FEE
Your annual residential refuse
fee covers weekly trash and
recycling collection, yard waste/
brush collection, household
hazardous waste center
operations, special collections
(leaf collection) and enhanced
recycling programs. The fee is
listed on your real estate tax
bill and paid semi-annually.
Additional fees may be required
for mulch delivery or bulk metal/
appliance pickup.
1. 65 gallon (recommended)
2. 35 gallon
3. 18 gallon bin
YARD WASTE RECYCLING TRASH
2
3
1
Weekly Collection Map
6 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
GUIDE TO SERVICES | 7
RECYCLING
Recycling markets are constantly changing. As these
markets change, so does the recyclability of materials.
Sorting technologies and packaging designs also change
over time, which requires the City to review and adjust
its recycling programs. The City will work to keep you
informed about what is and is not recyclable.
WHAT ABOUT RECYCLABLE ITEMS THAT DON’T
BELONG IN THE BLUE CONTAINER?
Residents who receive City recycling collection
service may schedule a pickup for bulky metal
items. Metal household appliances and large
metal items such as outdoor grills, exercise
equipment, and chain-link fencing can be
recycled per request (fees apply).
Contact Alex311 to put in a service request.
WHAT DO I RECYCLE IN THE BLUE CONTAINER?
RECYCLING GUIDELINES
RECYCLE RIGHT
ALEXANDRIA
NO PLASTIC BAGS
DO NOT
BAG
Recyclables
Return plastic bags to retailers.
Find the nearest retailer: plasticlmrecycling.org
PLASTIC BAG DROP-OFF
Plastic bags, wrap, and lm can be recycled if they are dropped
off at participating grocery stores and retailers.
Employees removing tangled plastic bags from recycling equipment
Plastic bags, wrap, and lm of any color, size or shape are not
accepted in the City’s recycling bin. Plastic bags are often the
biggest contaminant found in the City’s recycling stream. These
materials clog recycling equipment resulting in safety hazards to
employees and operational problems.
Recycling facilities will often reject recyclables if they are
contained in a plastic garbage bag or include wraps and lms of
any kind. The City also pays a penalty when bags and wraps are
present. Please help the City reduce contamination by keeping
your recyclables loose.
NO PLASTIC BAGS IN RECYCLING!
PAPER &
CARDBOARD
EMPTY
PLASTICS
EMPTY & RINSE LABELS OK
METALS
EMPTY & RINSE LABELS OK
NO STYROFOAM
NO GLASS
NO PLASTIC BAGS
NO SHREDDED PAPER
NO PET WASTE/NO DIAPERS
NO MEDICAL WASTE/SHARPS
NO BATTERIES & ELECTRONICS
NO CLOTHING OR TEXTILES
NO TANGLERS (CORDS, HOSES, WIRES)
NO RECYCLING!
1. Materials should be clean,
empty and dry. Rinse if
necessary. No food residue.
2. Put caps back on containers
after emptying.
3. Items smaller than 3 x 3 inches
will slip through the recycling
equipment. No utensils or straws.
4. Empty and atten cardboard.
Remove air pillows, Styrofoam or
plastic wrap from the cardboard.
5. Plastic numbers (#1-7) do not
determine recyclability. Rigid
plastic containers with a neck
made of #1 and #2 plastics are
widely recyclable in the region.
6. Do not recycle plastic cups, trays
and containers such as take out
containers or plastic fruit containers.
While all plastics are potentially
recyclable, the market dictates which
types of plastics are acceptable.
7. Visit alexandriava.gov/Recycling
for online recycling tools and the
most up-to-date Yes/No list.
8 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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RECYCLING DROP-OFF CENTERS
RECYCLING AT DROP-OFF CENTERS
Can’t wait to recycle? The City provides four public drop-
off centers for all City residents and small businesses.
Accepted Materials:
• Mixed Containers (aluminum cans, steel cans,
plastic bottles, and jugs)
• Mixed Paper
• Emptied and Flattened Cardboard (remove
Styrofoam and plastic wrap)
Not Accepted Materials:
• NO Glass (Use Purple Bins co-located at Recycling
Centers)
• NO Styrofoam or Packing Peanuts
• NO Pots and Pans
• NO Plastic Bags, Wrap or Film
• NO Trash, Furniture, Bulk Trash, Construction
Waste or
Yard Waste (NO Illegal dumping)
• 4251 Eisenhower Ave.
• 3224 Colvin St.
• S. Royal St. and Jones Point Dr.
• Tower Ct. South Whiting St.
24 hours a day, seven days a week
Free
alexandriava.gov/go/2768
HELP US FIGHT ILLEGAL DUMPING
Illegal dumping is the unlawful disposal of trash. Illegal
dumping threatens the closures of recycling centers.
See any violations in progress? Report illegal dumping
in the City by contacting Alex311.
Stopping illegal dumping makes good environmental
and economic sense, and it is everyone’s problem.
Help us solve it by working together with your local law
enforcement ofcials for a cleaner, healthier, and safer
community.
The City of Alexandria is
serious about combating
this public nuisance. Do
your part and help keep
our community clean and
healthy.
NO GLASS CONTAINERS IN BLUE
RECYCLING!
Glass is not accepted by the curbside recycling program.
Glass dropped off at purple bins will be recycled into new
glass bottles and materials used in local public works
projects.
RESIDENTS HAVE TWO OPTIONS:
Drop off glass at purple glass-only recycling bins.
Place glass in the curbside trash carts.
alexandriava.gov/go/2771
GLASS DROP-OFF LOCATION
• 4251 Eisenhower Ave.
• 3224 Colvin St.
• S. Royal St. and Jones Point Dr.
• Tower Ct. and South Whiting St.
• 3831 Mt. Vernon Ave.
For additional locations in Northern Virginia,
visit alexandriava.gov/go/2771
24 hours a day, seven days a week
Free
GLASS
NO!
YES!
Empty & Rinse
Labels - OK
All Colors of Glass - OK
Metal Caps & Lids - OK
Do Not Bag Glass
No Plastic Liners
No Misc Glass
Ceramics, Porcelain,
Mirrors, Windows,
Pyrex, or Glass Sheets
No Plastic Bags or
Plastic Wrap
(return to retail)
No Food or Liquid
(empty and rinse)
No Lamps or
Bulbs (use
Household
Hazardous
Waste Center
at 3224 Colvin St.)
10 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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RECYCLING AT YOUR EVENT
Recycling is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to
reduce the amount of trash at your event. Recycling can
be set up in four easy steps.
1. Decide to have recycling at your event and establish
a coordinator, especially for larger events.
2. Plan and set-up a collection system.
• What kind of trash and recycling containers will you use?
• How many trash and recycling containers will you use?
• The rule of thumb is one recycling
container for every trash can.
• Where will the trash and recycling containers be located?
Keep the trash and recycling containers next to one
another in highly visible and easily accessible locations.
• Who will be responsible for emptying the
trash and recycling containers?
• Who will dispose of the trash and recycling at the end
of the event? Hauler, individual, etc. For small events,
the City’s recycling drop-off locations are available.
3. Promote and provide basic recycling education.
• Announce at the beginning and throughout
the event that recycling is available.
• Provide signs that state what is recyclable.
• Ensure that the trash and recycling
containers are appropriately labeled.
alexandriava.gov/go/2723
alexandriava.gov/go/2723
RECYCLING AT SPECIAL EVENTS
4. Monitor the trash and recycling containers
for any contamination (i.e. trash in the
recycling container and vice versa).
• Have volunteers remind event goers about
what is and is not recyclable and where
recyclables go, especially for large events.
Need Recycling Containers for your Special
Event?
The City of Alexandria Recycling Program has 47
ClearStream recycling containers that can be
loaned out for events in the City of Alexandria. For
more information, visit our website below.
RECYCLING ON THE GO
NO POOP IN THE BLUE
PUBLIC SPACE RECYCLING
Recycling containers are located in popular
pedestrian areas such as lower King Street and
Mount Vernon Ave. as well as City parks.
Users of public space containers should refrain from disposing of
their animal waste in the blue recycling containers and only use
trash containers for animal waste.
Animal waste will contaminate recyclable materials requiring us to
take them as trash.
Acceptable Materials:
• Plastic Bottles
• Aluminum Cans
• Mixed Paper
Unacceptable Materials:
• Glass (recycle using glass purple bin or dispose
of it in the trash)
• Pet Waste
• Styrofoam
• Plastic Bag/Film/Wrap
• Bulky Waste
• Food Containers (e.g. to-go containers, cups, or
trays), or Other Trash
*Please place bulky recyclables
such as cardboard or large plastic jugs
at a City Recycling Drop-Off Center.
12 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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OTHER ORGANICS
SPRING LEAF & WOOD MULCH
NEW! CURBSIDE FOOD WASTE COMPOSTING
PILOT 2023-2025
CHRISTMAS TREES
Residents who receive City collection may place
natural Christmas trees on the curb on regular refuse
days in the month of January. The trees will be ground
into pine mulch. Stands, tinseling, decorations, and
lights MUST be removed.
For a limited time during spring and summer, free
mulch is available on a rst-come, rst served basis
from the City’s mulch site (4251 Eisenhower Ave.).
The site is co-located with the Eisenhower Ave.
Recycling Center.
You may also call Alex311 or visit the website below to
schedule mulch delivery during the spring and early
summer months. Delivery is $65 for each half-load
and $130 for a full-load. Deliveries are scheduled
Mon.-Fri. and not on weekends or holidays.
alexandriava.gov/YardWaste
alexandriava.gov/go/4289
The City of Alexandria launched a new curbside
food waste composting collection pilot for residents
receiving City trash and recycling services. Residents
approved for the pilot will be able to place items such
as fruit and vegetable scraps, meat, and bones in a
dedicated bin for food waste collection instead of
putting food waste in the trash.
For pilot participants, the City will subsidize the cost
of supplies and collection for the rst six months.
After six months, residents may continue service with
the vendor for a monthly or annual subscription fee.
*The City will provide a twelve-month subsidy for 100
households currently exempt from payment of the
Residential Refuse Fee and receiving tax relief and
assistance. Up to 2,000 households will be selected
in the pilot program each year for two years. To learn
more about this service, please visit our website.
YARD WASTE - REGULAR COLLECTION
Grass, leaves, brush, branches and dead plants are ingredients for
making useful products like organic compost and mulch. This resource,
referred to as yard waste, is now collected separately from household
trash. The City processes this material to create compost or mulch.
The City does not supply/maintain or replace Yard Waste containers.
Place yard waste into rigid/reusable containers or paper yard-waste
bags (purchased at grocery and hardware stores) and put them next to
your trash container. Collection occurs on the same day as trash.
BRUSHES & BRANCHES
(ARRANGE FOR PRIVATE DISPOSAL)
YARD WASTE - YES!
NO!
GRASS
LEAVES
DEAD PLANTS
ROCKS, SOIL,
STUMPS, SOD
PET WASTE
(DISPOSE IN TRASH)
Contact Alex311 to request a
“YARD WASTE ONLY” label to identify
your yard waste container.
BULKY YARD WASTE - BY
REQUEST
PREPARATION
Brush, branches, and logs that are too
bulky or heavy to t into a container are
collected curbside by request. Staff will
collect up to two felled trees at curbside
(restrictions apply, see below).
Use Alex311 to schedule a collection
day.
• Collection is available only for logs
and branches less than 18 inches
in diameter and less than 10 feet
long. No tree stumps.
• Place brush curbside, not in
the yard or alley. Stack large
items parallel to the curb.
• Overhead clearance of 25 feet is
required (look for power lines and
tree limbs).
• Do not mix lumber or construction
debris with brush.
• Do not place brush by parked
cars; 10 feet of clearance is
required.
• Do not stack brush against xed
objects such as poles, posts,
fences, walls or buildings.
• Do not block sidewalks.
YARD WASTE
alexandriava.gov/YardWaste
14 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
GUIDE TO SERVICES | 15
FOOD WASTE COMPOSTING AT
FARMERS’ MARKETS
SAVE THE FOOD
City of Alexandria’s Food Waste
Composting Stations Compost Food Scraps to Make
Rich Soil
Compost Food Scraps to Make Rich Soil
40% of all foods in America is wasted.
LOCATIONS
COMPOST
YES
COMPOST
NO
Stopping food waste before it begins and donating food is
the best practice before composting. Learn about food waste
prevention, a directory of where to donate food, and additional
tips by visiting alexandriava.gov/FoodWaste.
NUTS, BEANS, SEEDS
(including shells/hulls)
FRUIT & VEGETABLE
SCRAPS
BREAD, PASTA, RICE,
GRAINS, & CEREAL
EGGS SHELLS
FLOWERS
COFFEE GROUNDS,
FILTERS, TEA BAGS (no foil
or foil-backed products)
Del Ray Farmers’ Market
Corner of East Oxford & Mount
Vernon Avenues
Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Open Year Round
Old Town Farmers’ Market
Market Square, 301 King Street
Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Open Year Round
Four Mile Run Farmers’ Market
4109 Mount Vernon Avenue
Sundays, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Open Year Round
West End Farmers’ Market
4800 Brenman Park Drive
Sundays, 8.30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Seasonal Market - Check Website
for Dates
Old Town North
Farmers Market
901 North Royal Street
Sundays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Open Year Round
NEW Southern Towers
Farmers Market
4901 Seminary Rd
Saturdays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Year Round
OIL
DAIRY
NAPKINS, TISSUE
PET WASTE
PLASTIC BAGS
MEAT, SEAFOOD, &
BONES
Food waste can be dropped-off at weekend
farmers’ markets for composting into a nutrient
rich natural fertilizer for free. Staff is on-site to
answer questions about composting and provide
advice on how to reduce food waste.
From late October through January, City crews operate
leaf vacuum trucks and collect paper leaf bags. The
annual curbside leaf collection program is a service
provided to all residents receiving City residential
refuse and recycling services. Alexandria is sectioned
into ve collection zones, each with a specic start
date and three separate passes. Residents can
access the Residential Leaf Collection Viewer (an
interactive map on the City’s Leaf Collection website)
to look up assigned leaf collection dates based on the
home address.
LEAF COLLECTION
Three Ways to Recycle Your Leaves
Residents who receive City trash and recycling collection
services may recycle leaves in three ways:
1) LEAF VACUUMING
During leaf season, crews collect
leaves raked to the front curb
with a vacuum truck. Weather
permitting; City crews make three
passes through each neighborhood
zone. It takes crews several days to
complete each pass in each zone.
How to Prepare
• Rake leaves out the day before your assigned
collection date (check online for a weekly updated
schedule or sign up for T&ES’ Resource Recovery
eNews to get weekly updates by email).
• Rake leaves into piles at the street curb. This enables
crews to move more quickly and efciently.
• Remove stones, litter, branches or other debris.
These items can damage equipment and injure our
workers.
• Avoid placing leaves in front of storm drains or water
meter covers.
• Move parked cars off leaf piles.
• Do not rake leaves into alleys or service roads. Loose
leaves are not collected from alleys.
2) LEAF BAG COLLECTION
During leaf collection season,
the City provides biodegradable
paper bags for leaves, available
on a rst come, rst serve basis,
while supplies last. The bags are
available at various City facilities
for pick-up for residents and not
available for commercial use.
Bags are collected at your collection point (where you
set your trash, recycling, and yard waste out) on your
regular trash collection day.
How to Prepare
• Place paper bags at your collection point, on your
regular trash collection day. Only use paper bags.
Leaves in plastic bags are considered refuse, and
will be thrown away as trash at the Covanta Energy-
from-Waste plant.
• Remove dirt, stones, litter and other debris from
leaves before placing them in bags.
3) COMPOST LEAVES AT HOME
Composting at home is an easy way to take
advantage of the environment's natural recycling
process, which creates valuable organic supplements,
and can be done right in your own backyard. Visit
alexandriava.gov/ResourceRecovery to learn more
about grasscycling, backyard composting, and the
City’s farmers’ market composting stations.
alexandriava.gov/LeafCollection
16 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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TRASH SERVICES
After separating recyclables and yard waste, what
remains is your household trash. The City of Alexandria
collects trash from approximately 20,200 customers
each week. The trash that we collect is processed into
energy. Alexandria disposes of its trash at COVANTA
Energy’s Alexandria/Arlington Waste-To-Energy Facility at
5301 Eisenhower Avenue.
This facility turns waste into energy by burning 975 tons
of solid waste daily to produce 21 megawatts of energy
and power to approximately 15,000 homes. The City
follows U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Waste
Management Hierarchy of energy recovery following
reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting.
TRASH PREPARATION
BULK TRASH - EVERY COLLECTION DAY
Your household trash bags should be
put into a City provided trash container
and placed curbside (or alley) on your
designated trash day.
The City of Alexandria collects trash
from approximately 20,200 customers
each week
tons of ferrous metal were recovered
from the plant for recycling in FY22
tons of waste to energy per day
megawatts of energy and power generated
to approximately 15,000 homes.
You can place bulky items next to your trash container
on your collection day any time of year. Bulk metal
items require a service request through Alex311 (fees
apply for appliances); otherwise, put large items out
for pickup whenever you want, whether it’s spring or
not.
20,200
10,000
975
21
COVANTA Alexandria/Arlington Waste-To-Energy Facility
The City’s Waste-To-Energy Facility includes a
residential drop-off available to all Alexandria residents.
Residents may drop-off waste once per week. Total
weight of trash, debris or metal must not exceed 500
lbs. per visit. Residents may be asked to provide proof
of residency by photo identication. (Unacceptable
items include TVs, stumps, rocks, dirt, sand,
pressurized cylinders/tanks, construction and building
debris, hazardous waste, ammunition/ explosives,
regulated medical waste and radioactive/geological
materials.)
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has
issued nal permits for the installation and operation of
Low NOx (LN®) technology at the COVANTA Alexandria/
Arlington Waste-To-Energy Facility.
In 2022, Covanta Alexandria Waste-to-Energy facility
completed planned enhancements to its state-of-the-
art pollution control technology. The goal is to further
reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, thereby helping
to protect the environment.
With installation of its proprietary Low NOx (LN)
technology now complete, nitrogen oxide emissions
have been reduced by nearly 50%. The effort was
part of a multi-year project at the Covanta Alexandria-
Arlington Facility.
Questions? Call COVANTA at 703.370.7722
5301 Eisenhower Ave.
Mon-Fri from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.,
and Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
FREE
alexandriava.gov/RefuseCollection
TRASH DROP-OFF CENTER
ENVIRONMENTAL UPGRADES COMPLETE
?
BUILDING MATERIALS, ROCKS & DIRT
Material from home construction projects and landscaping
materials such as dirt, rock and stone are not accepted
in the City’s programs. Hauling and disposal services for
shingles, brick, bathroom xtures, drywall and framing
lumber are available commercially.
Please consider donating reusable items such as light
xtures and kitchen cabinetry. Contact landscaping
companies for the removal of dirt, rock and stone. Visit
our website, alexandriava.gov/RefuseCollection for a list of
other local solid waste facilities and link to the MWCOG’s
Builder’s Recycling Guide.
TRASH SERVICES
18 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
GUIDE TO SERVICES | 19
Some household products require special
disposal to keep our community safe, our
water clean and our air fresh. These products
contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals.
The City operates a staffed drop-off location
open two days a week for these items.
3224 Colvin St. (just off Duke St.)
Visit website for full list of materials alexandriava.gov/go/2703
Mon OPEN 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
(except holidays)
Tues: CLOSED
Wed: CLOSED
Thu: CLOSED
Fri: CLOSED
Sat: OPEN 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
(except holidays)
Sun: CLOSED
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE (HHW)
& ELECTRONICS
FREE
HOUSEHOLD
CLEANING
PESTICIDES
BATTERIES
All Rechargeable (e.g. Li-Ion, Ni-
MH, Ni-Cd, Ni-Zn)
Single Use Lithium (e.g. button/
coin cell, AA, AAA, 9V, C, D,
CR123A, CR2)
Lead Acid (automotive) & Sealed
Lead Acid
ELECTRONIC
WASTE
PROPANE TANK
PAINT, STAINS &
SOLVENTS
MERCURY
CONTAINING ITEMS
OLD THERMOMETERS &
THERMOSTATS
FLUORESCENT BULBS
AUTOMOTIVE
CHEMICALS
HERBICIDES &
GARDEN
PRODUCTS
Batteries are the leading cause
of truck res in the U.S. Do not
place rechargeable batteries
of any kind in the trash or
recycling. Bring them to the
HHW Center. Regular alkaline
can go in trash.
...PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE?
...LATEX PAINT?
Unlike oil-based paint, latex paint is not a hazardous waste and can be
disposed of with regular trash. The challenge is getting it from your home to the
Waste-to-Energy plant without it leaking from the trash truck. Prior to disposal
thicken the paint by adding paint absorbent, kitty litter or shredded newspaper,
then replace the lid and seal the can in a plastic bag. Never pour paint down a
sink or storm drain! For tips on reducing paint waste see, page 21.
...SHARPS?
Check with your doctor, clinic, or hospital to see about a needle or “sharps”
disposal program at their ofce. Otherwise, place needles, syringes, lancets and
other contaminated sharps in any puncture-resistant, resealable, disposable
household container (e.g. empty bleach bottle, laundry detergent bottle, or metal
coffee can). Write on the container “SHARPS”. Once your container is full of used
needles, ll the container with one part bleach solution and ten parts of water.
Allow solution to soak for 20 minutes, to sterilize your used sharps. Then, pour
the solution into the sink and seal the cap with tape before placing the disposal
container into the garbage. Dispose of the container in your regular trash bin.
Help the City keep opioids out of the hands of those who might abuse them and to
keep our precious drinking water clean from improper medicine disposals. Never
ush medicine down a toilet or pour down a drain. You can drop-off any old or
unwanted medicine year-round at:
• APD Headquarters (3600 Wheeler Ave.)
• Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray (2204 Mt. Vernon Ave.)
• Inova Alexandria Hospital (4320 Seminary Rd.)
...EXPLOSIVES AND AMMUNITION?
Fireworks and explosives should be taken to a near-by re station. Ammunition
should be taken to the police department. Please call their non-emergency
number to arrange a drop-off. (703.746.4444).
...FOOD OILS, FATS AND GREASE?
Small amounts can be absorbed with paper towels and thrown away as regular
trash. Modest amounts can be poured into a container with a screw-on lid and
disposed as regular trash. For larger amounts, consider asking a restaurant
manager for permission to empty the oil into their used oil container. Never pour
oils, fats or greases down the sink drain or storm drain.
HOW TO DISPOSE OF
20 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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BATTERIES
Did you know that improper disposal of rechargeable batteries
is one of the leading causes of truck res in the waste industry?
Do not throw away rechargeable batteries or single use lithum
batteries in the recycling OR trash bins.
Help keep our workers safe by dropping off your rechargeable
batteries (e.g. Li-Ion, Ni-Cd, Ni-Mh, Ni-Zn), single use lithium
batteries (e.g. button/coin cell, AA, AAA, 9V, C, D, CR123A,
CR2), and batteries greater than 9 volts at an approved drop-
off location for safe disposal.
Note: Alkaline batteries (e.g. AA, AAA batteries)
can be safely disposed of in the trash.
DROP OFF LOCATIONS
EXAMPLES OF BATTERIES TO DROP OFF
Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Collection Center
Location: 3224 Colvin Street
Hours:
Mon OPEN 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
(except holidays)
Tues: CLOSED
Wed: CLOSED
Thu: CLOSED
Fri: CLOSED
Sat: OPEN 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
(except holidays)
Sun: CLOSED
SAFELY DISPOSE OF BATTERIES
For additional drop off locations
provided voluntarily by retailers
in the City, please visit
alexandriava.gov/go/3619
Rechargeable batteries are found in more
places than you may think
• Cordless power tools (e.g. leaf blowers, drills,
saws, grinders, lawn mowers)
• Cellphones, Cordless phones, Two-Way
Radios
• Flashlights
• Laptops & Tablets
• Biomedical Equipment
• Children’s Toys
• Singing Greeting Cards
• Keyless entry remotes, Remote Controls
• E-Cigarettes
• Electronic Toothbrushes
• Smoke Detectors
Reducing waste and reusing is the most effective way
to save natural resources, protect the environment, and
reduce costs.
1. Donate or sell unwanted clothing, toys, and home
furnishings. Visit the City’s Reuse Directory at
alexandriava.gov/19202 for drop-off locations.
2. Opt out of credit card solicitations and other types of
unwanted mail. Visit catalogchoice.org.
3. Prevent food waste by planning meals ahead, using
the food you have, and keeping food fresh longer. Visit
savethefood.com for tools such as an interactive dinner
party calculator, a digital tool to create a meal prep
shopping list, an interactive food storage guide, and
more.
4. Shop with reusable bags to reduce plastic bags.
5. Pack lunch in a reusable container and bring utensils
from home.
6. Use a reusable water bottle or mug to reduce single use
waste.
7. Wrap presents in reusable gift wrap.
8. Extend the life of items by repairing or refurbishing prior
to disposal.
9. Reduce Paint Waste: Consider using a paint calculator
when buying paint for your project to avoid buying more
than needed. If you have a surplus of good quality paint
consider donating, giving away to someone who can use
it, or bringing it to the HHW Center on Colvin St.
REDUCE & REUSE TIPS
22 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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PLASTIC BAG TAX
REUSABLE BAG ACCESS FOR
SNAP / WIC COMMUNITY
BACKGROUND
REUSABLE BAGS AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
The City of Alexandria, along with Arlington, Loundan, and
Fairfax Counties, has adopted a 5-cent per bag tax on
disposable plastic bags from grocery, convenience, and
drug stores. The tax went into effect on January 1, 2022.
The City has been offering reusable bags to
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
(SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
communities in advance of the Plastic Bag Tax
going into effect on January 1, 2022.
For more information visit:
alexandriava.gov/go/2091
Avoid the 5-cent bag fee when shopping
at grocery stores, convenience stores,
and drug stores by bringing your
reusable bag whenever you shop.
Community and Human Services Front Ofce
(DCHS)
• 2525 Mount Vernon Ave.
• Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Department of Transportation & Environmental
Services (T&ES)
• 2900-B Business Center Dr.
• Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Lightweight plastic bags are commonly found in waterways as
litter and remain as a pollutant. Wildlife commonly mistake
plastic bags for food and also cause microscopic particles of
broken down plastics to enter into the food chain. During the
City’s WasteSmart Strategic Plan and the Environmental Action
Plan (EAP) stakeholder engagement process since 2017, the
City of Alexandria residents voiced their concerns over single-
use plastic from the public to see less environmental impact of
plastic bags.
REDUCE PLASTIC BAGS
INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS
STRATEGIES TO REDUCE FOOD WASTE
Wasted food accounts for 25% of the trash we throw away. Follow these easy tips to keep good food from going to
waste.
SMART SHOPPING
Buy only what you need and shop your kitchen rst. Think
about how many meals you’ll eat at home this week and how
long before your next shopping trip.
SMART PREP
Prepare perishable foods soon after shopping. It will be easier to whip
up meals later in the week, saving time, effort, and money.
SMART STORAGE
Know which fruits and vegetables stay fresh longer inside or outside
the fridge. By storing them for maximum freshness, they will taste
better and last longer.
SMART SAVINGS
Eat what you buy. Be mindful of leftovers and old ingredients.
Households are encouraged to designate an area in the refrigerator
for food that should be eaten relatively soon to prevent spoiling, and
posting the prompt as a visual reminder.
alexandriava.gov/go/4260
24 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
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REDUCE HOLIDAY WASTE
WRAPPING PAPER GUIDE
Purchase wrapping paper made with recycled
materials that will also be recyclable and reuse
tissue and wrapping paper. Remember, metallic/
glitter wrapping paper are not recyclable.
RECYCLE TRASHREUSE
GLOSSY
METALLIC
WAX-COATED
PLAIN
TISSUE
PAPER TUBE
PAPER BOX
‘TIS THE
TO
RECYCLE
SEASON
On average, household waste increases by more than 25% from Thanksgiving to New Years. Help reduce waste
during the holiday season with these simple tips.
USE NATURAL MATERIALS IN YOUR
HOLIDAY DÉCOR
Decorate using real greenery. Natural
wreaths and garland decor can be
composted with your other yard waste after
the holidays. Just remember to remove
any wires, lights, or ribbon. For more
information about recycling yard waste,
visit our Yard Waste Recycling page.
GIVE EXPERIENCES INSTEAD OF STUFF!
Tickets to a show, dinner for two, or movie
coupons are all great gift ideas that require
no packaging. Give an alternative gift that
may benet charities, especially those that
have been impacted by the pandemic.
Remember memories can last longer than
things.
GIFT IN REUSABLE AND/OR RECYCLABLE
CONTAINERS
Get creative this holiday season! Reuse
boxes from online purchases as gift boxes.
Or give existing materials a second life as
gift wrap. These can include newspapers,
magazines, and bags. Pro tip: The “funny
papers” or comics are terric for children’s
gifts.
KEEP TANGLERS OUT OF BLUE BIN
EMPTY, FLATTEN, RECYCLE SHIPPING
BOXES
Please remember to keep items that
tangle out of the recycling bin this
holiday season. Reuse ribbons & bows
or place them in the trash.
This holiday season, remember
to empty, atten, and recycle your
shipping and gift boxes. When you
atten boxes it makes more room in
your recycling bin.
RECYCLING WHILE COOKING
Cooking this holiday season? Did you
know items such as milk cartons,
aluminum cans, and baking sheets
can be recycled. Just make sure they
are rinsed and dry before placing in
the bin.
alexandriava.gov/go/4151
RECYCLE RIGHT SORTING GAME
WHAT GOES WHERE?
REUSE DIRECTORY
The City launched a sorting game that teaches you
how to properly sort recyclables, yard waste and
trash. Test your knowledge of sorting using City
services and build your own digital Alexandria park.
Have you ever been unsure about which items can be
recycled or trashed? With the City’s new “What Goes
Where?” tool, the guesswork is out. Simply type in
the name of the item you have a question about, and
information will be provided on how best to dispose
of it in the City.
Want to reduce and reuse but not sure where to
start? Visit the City’s website for our new Reuse
Directory! Find a list of local resources where you can
repair, donate, and shop second-hand.
TOOLS TO HELP REDUCE, REUSE
& RECYCLE
alexandriava.recycle.game
alexandriava.gov/Recycling
alexandriava.gov/go/2773
26 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
GUIDE TO SERVICES | 27
PACKAGE FREE MAP
PREVENT FOOD WASTE
Have you been curious about reducing waste or going
package free? Visit our website to learn a few easy
tips on shopping package-free and reducing your
household packaging and plastic waste.
Prevent food waste with tips for shopping wisely,
using the food you have, and keeping food fresh
longer. Check out Save the Food’s website for tools
such as an interactive dinner party calculator, a
digital tool to help you create your next shopping list
to meal prep, an interactive storage guide, and more.
alexandriava.gov/go/2773
alexandriava.gov/FoodWaste
TOOLS TO HELP
REFILL & GO PACKAGE FREE
HOW TO CONTACT US
Alex311 connects you to more than 175 City services in
a variety of convenient ways. The Alex311 mobile app
and website allow you to attach photos and specify the
location of service requests. Call 311 or 703.746.4311
from anywhere in Alexandria, or submit requests on
Facebook, Twitter and in-person. When a service
request is submitted, you’ll receive an email including
a summary of the details, an expected response date
based on the request type and a case number to track
progress.
For the Holiday Operating Schedule, please visit: alexandriava.gov/ResourceRecovery
ALEX
311
STAY CONNECTED
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
CONNECTING YOU TO CITY SERVICES
alexandriava.gov/Alex311
Visit the City’s website
at alexandriava.gov
Visit the Resource
Recovery Division’s
website at
alexandriava.gov/
ResourceRecovery
Follow us on social media
@AlexandriaVATES
28 | GUIDE TO SERVICES
CITY OF ALEXANDRIA
301 KING STREET
ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314
CITY OF ALEXANDRIA
TRANSPORTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
RESOURCE RECOVERY DIVISION
@AlexandriaVATES @AlexandriaVATES @AlexandriaVATESalexandriava.gov/TES
Presort Standard
US Postage
PAID
Permit # 2782
Merrifield, VA
Alexandria City Hall 301 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314