CITY OF ALBANY
NEIGHBORHOOD PORTAL
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: RECYCLING
The following questions are the most frequently asked regarding recycling. If the answer you are searching for does not appear on this page, please send us your questions below.
*Only questions regarding policies, procedures, or programs. No individual requests or complaints.
Recycling, Waste Reduction and Reuse
Our cubside recycling collection is a single stream collection program which means there is no need to sort your recyclables. We accept glass, metal, plastic, paper and cardboard and it can be commingled into one collection container. Whether it's a bin or a cart place the recycling loosely in the container and place the container curbside on the evening prior to your regularly scheduled collection day. For a list of acceptable recycling materials click here
Trash and Recycling is collected Monday through Friday between the hours of 4:00am and 12:00 noon. In some instances collection may be changed to start as early as 2:00am and be collected until 11:00pm.
Bulky recycling items are items such as appliances and tires. For a list of bulky recycling click here.
There are many electronic items accepted by the City. For a list of electronics accepted please click here.
City of Albany residents have several convenient ways to dispose of their electronics.
1) Unwanted electronics can be returned to the retail stores who sell like items (a few may apply). For a list of locations click here.
2) A permanent drop off location is located at the Department of General Services facility at One Richard J. Conners Blvd, Albany, NY 12204. Drop off hours are Monday through Friday between 7:00am and 5:00pm. Residents must present proof of residency. Electronics are not collected on weekends or holidays. Electronics should never be left after hours.
3)Electronics are accepted at schedule household hazardous waste collection events. To learn more about the household hazardous waste collection program click here.
Yardwaste is grass clippings, branches, leaves and other biodegradable items. For a full list of acceptable material and preparation information please click here.
Alkaline batteries such as AA, AAA, D & C’s contains no hazardous chemicals and can be disposed of in the trash according to the EPA. Other batteries such as cell phone, power tools and watch batteries need to be disposed of through our household hazardous waste program. For more information on what batteries are hazardous waste please click here.
Latex paint is not considered hazardous however when placed in the trash it can cause problems. Latex paint should be disposed of at a Household Hazardous Waste Event. Note: Latex paint can be placed in the trash if it is dry. Prior to placing the can in the trash leave the lid off for 48 hours or until it is completely dry. For more information click here
Cooking oil should not be placed in the trash. Even though cooking oil is not hazardous it can cause damage to equipment and the environment if disposed of in the trash. The proper way to dispose of cooking oil is through the Household Hazardous Waste Program. For more information click here
Download Recycling Information
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Have Questions Call?
518-434-2489