Apartment Recycling

State and local laws require landlords provide tenants the opportunity to conveniently recycle at least four of these materials:

Newspaper
Magazines
Scrap paper
Corrugated cardboard
Plastic bottles and jugs
Glass bottles and jars
Steel (tin) and empty aerosol cans
Aluminum cans, clean foil and food trays

Information for tenants

If your complex does not have recycling containers, ask the manager to start a program or call the City, 503-618-2525.

Information for apartment managers, owners

Apartment Recycling Poster - Download and post for tenants - English and En Español

The two-sort system

Tenants will recycle more when recycling is simple and easy. All recycling collection in the City uses a two-sort system, designed to be straight-forward: glass in on bin, everything else in the other.

Items that can’t be recycled

• Food-contaminated paper, such as pizza boxes, take-out
• Frozen food boxes
• Ceramics, window glass, glass tableware
• Plastic caps and lids

Please remind residents to keep plastic bags out of the recycling bins, these can be recycled at most grocery stores.

Tips to make apartment recycling system work

• Call a City recycling specialist for information about your system. We have resources and experience that can make your recycling program work, 503-618-2525.
• Make sure your containers are labeled properly and stickers are still in good condition. Call us if you need new stickers.
• Put up posters in the recycling and community room areas that show residents how to recycle. We can provide these for you.
• Make sure recycling containers are conveniently placed near trash containers so recycling is visible and easy for your residents.
• Notify your residents about recycling at least once per year.
• Monitor your bin and dumpster levels regularly and consult with your hauler to make sure you have the right level of service for your needs.
• Make sure each resident receives recycling information in move-in and move-out packets. Better yet, include the recycling area in the site tour you give new residents.
• Provide information about donating unwanted but usable household items for your residents before they move out.