Recycling

Recycling in Madera is more than a requirement—it's an opportunity to conserve resources, reduce waste, and protect our environment. By understanding what materials can be recycled, how to properly separate waste, and programs available to residents and businesses, everyone can play a role in building a cleaner, greener community.

State Mandates

California law requires businesses to recycle certain materials. Stay compliant and learn more about the following mandates:

• AB 341 - Mandatory Non-Organic Commercial Recycling
• AB 1826 - Mandatory Commercial Organics Recycling

Learn more about statewide recycling programs at CalRecycle.

Recycling is a win for everyone. Californians purchased over 18.2 billion beverage containers last year; more than 10.6 billion were recycled, conserving resources, saving energy, and extending landfill life. Imagine the impact if the remaining 7.6 billion containers were recycled!

Find a Recycling Center Near You

Greenwaste Recycling

Greenwaste, also called yard waste, includes materials from your yard or garden that can be composted. Proper use keeps the program effective and reduces contamination.

What is Greenwaste?

Includes grass clippings, weeds, leaves, small branches, and yard-generated organic materials like bread, grains, eggshells, and paper products. Do not include proteins.

What Should NOT Go in the Greenwaste Container?

Plastic bags, garbage, household hazardous waste, animal waste, dirt, rocks, tires, flower pots, palm fronds, and pampas grass.

What Happens if My Greenwaste Container is Contaminated?

Collection drivers provide two warnings. On the third contamination, your greenwaste container will be removed, ending your participation in the program.

When Do I Place My Container Out for Collection?

Set your container out by 6:00 a.m. on your scheduled collection day.

Where Should I Place My Container Out for Collection?

Place the container in the same location as your regular refuse containers. Ensure access is not blocked by vehicles if placed on the street.

Reminder:
NO: Plastic Bags • Garbage • Animal Waste • Tires • Household Hazardous Waste • Dirt • Rocks • Flower Pots • Palm Fronds • Pampas Grass

Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ)

The RMDZ program merges recycling with economic growth, creating new businesses, expanding existing ones, generating jobs, and diverting waste from landfills. Eligible businesses receive loans, technical support, and marketing assistance. To participate, your business must be located within an RMDZ Zone.

Learn more:

• The Madera County RMDZ Administrator
• Madera County Economic Development Commission

Download Recycling & Composting Presentation