Recycling and Garbage

Disposal Options

Curbside Recycling Guide

Spanish Recycling Guide

Garbage Haulers and Landfills

Email Recycling Staff

Compost Bin Sale

Waukesha County recycling is hosting a compost bin sale on Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 8am-11am.
You must pre order your bin.
Please use the pre order link to order your bin today for pickup on May 9th. *While supplies last*

Event will be held at Retzer Nature Center
Free drop in sessions: 10am - Yardening and 10:30am - Composting: From Start to Finish
Check out the video below on how to start!

compost bins

Paper Cups now accepted!

We are now accepting paper cups in the Waukesha County recycling program!

Empty all liquids
Remove straws, stoppers, and food
Give your cup a quick rinse

**Please do not put in foam cups, lids, straws, and stoppers in your recycle bin.

Waukesha County Recycling Guide

Click on the recycling guide image below to check out our new guide!

Recycling Education

Waukesha County provides Recycling Education Programs for groups of all ages.

Master Recycler Program is now being offered! Join us in exploring Wisconsin's recycling laws and the Waukesha County Recycling Program in this informative workshop. There will be 2 classes offered at Retzer Nature Center on April 30. Registration is required for this class - use this link to register. (scroll down and click on Master Recycler) We also have one scheduled on June 8, from 2:00 - 3:30 at the Brookfield Public Library - no need to sign up for the Brookfield session.
Visit our Programs and Special Events page to search and request environmental education programs. If you have other questions, please email us at recycling@waukeshacounty.gov
Check out what our Green School Program has to offer.

Your Actions Matter!

Recycle right to help protect the environment.

Recyclables need to be loose, empty and dry before they are thrown in your recycling cart. Items that are filled with liquid or dirty with food residue are not acceptable because they can damage other recyclables, attract rodents, and cause the sorting equipment to incorrectly sort the material.

It is also important that your Household Hazardous Waste is not included in your trash or recycling cart. Find out more about disposing of HHW items.

Conserves natural resources by minimizing the need for new raw materials.
Uses less energy to create products from recycled materials.

Cuts down the volume of waste sent to landfills.
Conserves space, allowing for more natural habitats and community spaces.
Take a look at the items that are banned from landfills and incinerators statewide.

Supports more jobs than traditional waste disposal.
Involves roles from collection to selling recycled goods.

Turns old products into valuable new ones.
Promotes a circular economy where products are reused multiple times.

Watch what happens with your curbside recyclables once they are collected!

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