Wilkes-Barre City To Strictly Enforce Recycling And Garbage Collection

Press release from the City of Wilkes-Barre:

March 31, 2020

In an effort to address possible Coronavirus issues and promote a safer environment for the residents of Wilkes-Barre and the Department of Public Works employees, the City of Wilkes-Barre will be initiating changes to the collection of garbage and recyclables beginning Monday, March 30th.

All recycling, including cardboard, must be in a container, such as those supplied by the city. Recycling contained in a plastic bag, will not be accepted.

Health Department employees will be following Public Works employees, along daily collection routes, to help identify households that are improperly recycling. Warning tickets will be placed on recycling containers and/or waste bags. Residents who continuously refuse to follow the proper recycling procedures may face substantial fines, under the Wilkes-Barre City Code of Ordinances. If there is a violation, the Health Department will distribute literature to explain the proper way to recycle and dispose of garbage.

Residents are reminded that the following items are NOT recyclable:

• Items with food waste residue (cans, bottles, jars, and other containers should be cleaned before disposal)
• Styrofoam
• Plastic bags of any type
• Tissue Paper
• Paper Towels
• Diapers
• Electronic & Appliances

For a full list of items that are and are NOT recyclable, please review the recycling guidelines in the Wilkes-Barre City Calendar, which is also available online.

The city’s recycling, garbage, and yard waste guidelines are available online in English and Spanish.

This press release was produced by the City of Wilkes-Barre. The views expressed here are the author’s own.