Regulation Updates (Arlington, VA):
New Recycling Code, Businesses May Be Inspected

Arlington CountyAug 2016 — Businesses in Arlington, VA, should be on the lookout for a notice from the County’s Department of Environmental Services, which details changes to the recycling code.  Note that Arlington businesses may be inspected by the County for compliance. An inspection fee of $66 per business will be assessed by Arlington County.

According to the updated code, each business is required to provide a recycling system for employees to separate recyclable material from trash, with a recycling container placed next to each trash container.

To get started, you will be asked to register with Arlington County by joining the Arlington County Trash and Recycling Program at Re-Trac Registration.

The following are steps that you may take to ensure that your business is in full compliance.

  1. Walk through your building and/or tenant space and confirm that a corresponding recycling bin is located next to every single trash can.
  2. Ensure that these trash and recycling bins are clearly designated with stickers or signage to ensure proper disposal methods.
  3. If you still do not have a recycling program, establish a system that at a minimum collects mixed paper, cardboard, metal, glass, and plastic food and beverage containers for recycling.
  4. Provide educational materials to employees and/or tenants on the recycling system at least once per year. This can be in the form of a flyer, e-mail, posters or bulletin board notices.

For more information, contact your sustainability officer or consultant.  Arlington County recycling toolkit includes additional resources.

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