Frequently Asked Questions for Commercial Customers
Can I use compostable bags to line compost containers?
Yes! We're pleased to accept compostable bags in the BizSMART compost collection program.
The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) must approve the bags. Find a full list on the Biodegradable Products Institute's website.
The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) must approve the bags. Find a full list on the Biodegradable Products Institute's website.
Why can't I put plastic bags in the blue Recycle Cart?
Plastic bags are problematic for curbside collection because they tend to get wrapped around the sorting equipment at the Materials Recovery Facility. When this happens, the equipment must be shut down to cut the bags and remove them.
In addition, plastic bag recyclers require the bags to be clean in order for them to recycle them. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to keep them clean in a curbside program, and the majority would get disposed of as garbage even if they were put in with the recycling.
We encourage you to not use plastic bags if possible, but if you do, the best way to recycle them is to take them to grocery stores that accept them. You can find a list of participating stores on our Hard to Recycle page.
In addition, plastic bag recyclers require the bags to be clean in order for them to recycle them. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to keep them clean in a curbside program, and the majority would get disposed of as garbage even if they were put in with the recycling.
We encourage you to not use plastic bags if possible, but if you do, the best way to recycle them is to take them to grocery stores that accept them. You can find a list of participating stores on our Hard to Recycle page.
How do I recycle materials that can't go in the blue cart or bin?
Please visit our Hard to Recycle page for a list of items that can be recycled but do not belong in the blue Recycle cart.
You can also check out RecycleWorks of San Mateo County for general recycling and waste reduction information.
You can also check out RecycleWorks of San Mateo County for general recycling and waste reduction information.
What do I do about large items I want to get rid of?
When it comes to large or bulky items like appliances, electronics, office equipment and furniture, metal, textiles or carpets Recology is happy to make special arrangements to pick them up. Visit our Beyond the Cart section for more information.
I'm curious about composting at my business. How do I get more information?
Recology San Mateo County is proud to offer a composting service to its commercial customers. Visit our composting page for more information on the program, or contact us and we'll have a Recycling Coordinator get back to you right away.
What should I do with my hazardous waste?
For information on where you can bring your paint, cleaning products and other hazardous chemicals, visit our Hazardous Waste page. You can also visit RecycleWorks or www.FlowsToBay.org or call (800) 207-8222.
I don't generate that much hazardous waste. Is there a special program for that?
Yes. San Mateo County has a Small Quantity Generator Program to provide a low-cost option for businesses and non-profits that generate less than 220 pounds, or 27 gallons, of hazardous waste per month. Visit www.smhealth.org/vsqg for more information and to find out if you qualify.
What should I do with my old computers, copiers or TV?
Computers and TVs can be recycled in the Bulky Item Pick Up program. They are considered Electronic Waste, one of the fastest growing segments of our nation's waste stream. To find a location nearest you to donate or recycle these and more items, please visit our Hazardous Waste page, RecycleWorks or call (888) 442-2666.
GreenCitizen also recycles televisions, computers, printers, computer peripherals and a wide variety of other electronics. Everything is recycled in the United States, so there is no shipping of electronic waste overseas, and they have the e-steward certification! See a full list of what Green Citizen recycles.
GreenCitizen also recycles televisions, computers, printers, computer peripherals and a wide variety of other electronics. Everything is recycled in the United States, so there is no shipping of electronic waste overseas, and they have the e-steward certification! See a full list of what Green Citizen recycles.
I need a debris box. Can you help?
Absolutely! Please visit our Debris Box page for more information.
Can I use plastic bags in my Recycle or Compost cart or bin?
No, the only cart or bin that can be lined with a plastic bag is the black (or gray) one for garbage. Recology cannot accept recyclables or compostable material in plastic bags. Plastic bags are a significant problem for the equipment that we use to processes the materials we collect. However, you can line your green and blue carts with newspaper, paper bags, paper towels or cardboard.
What are the dimensions of the 20, 32, 64, and 96 gallon carts?
| Size | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| *20-gallon | 24 | 19.75 | 37.5 |
| *32-gallon | 24.25 | 19.25 | 38.5 |
| 64-gallon | 31.75 | 24.25 | 41.75 |
| 96-gallon | 35.25 | 29.75 | 43.25 |
*20 and 32 gallon carts do look very similar in size; however, the 20 gallon cart has an in-mold volume reducer to diminish its capacity.
Commercial Bins are available in a variety of sizes. The most common sized bins are listed below.* However, larger bins including 9, 15, 20, 30 and 40 cubic yards are also available. Contact us for more information.
| Size | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-cubic yard | 72" | 24" | 28" |
| 2-cubic yards | 72" | 34.5" | 34.5" |
| 3-cubic yards | 72" | 41.5" | 41.5" |
| 4-cubic yards | 72" | 50.5" | 46" |
| 6-cubic yards | 72" | 66" | 50" |
| 8-cubic yards | 72" | 72" | 56" |
*Container dimensions may vary.
How do I pay my bill?
You can mail in a check with your bill, or pay online. You can also set up automated billing through Recology's website to receive bills via e-mail you can pay online. You can even drop off your payment at our facilities.
Where can I download your W-9?
You can download our W-9 form here.
I need ideas to get my staff motivated to recycle. Do you have suggestions?
Absolutely! Visit our Smart Business: Reduction Tips to Prevent Waste and Save Money section.
For more general recycling and waste reduction information, please visit RecycleWorks of San Mateo County.
Questions? Please contact us.
Language Assistance:
We offer a free Language Line with over 170 different languages through our Customer Service Department. Please contact us for more information.
Recology San Mateo County provides recycling, compost and garbage collection services to the 12 Member Agencies in the RethinkWaste service area.
Questions? Please contact us.
Language Assistance:
We offer a free Language Line with over 170 different languages through our Customer Service Department. Please contact us for more information.
Recology San Mateo County provides recycling, compost and garbage collection services to the 12 Member Agencies in the RethinkWaste service area.
