YOUR TOWN. YOUR RULES.
Leelanau County
We’ve pawed our way through recycling bins all over the state, and we’ve learned that the rules of recycling differ from one community to the next. That’s why we’re here to talk to you about YOUR rules – the rules of recycling for Leelanau County residents. Reduce and reuse first, know it before you throw it when you recycle, and always reach out to Leelanau County Recycling when you have questions.
Find a drop-off location nearby.
Leelanau's Essential Rules to Recycling Perfection
What’s a “tangler”? Anything that jams sorting machinery at the recycling center by wrapping around the equipment discs and wheels is a tangler.
TIP: Some of these items can be recycled at special drop-off locations. Find more information about recycling tanglers at Leelanau County Recycling .
No extension cords
No wire hangers
No rope
No light strings
No plastic hangers
All Recyclables need to be loose. We know it’s tempting to keep things orderly by putting all your recyclables in plastic (or paper) bags – but it’s a bad idea. Here’s why:
- Recyclables need to be loose for sorting at the facility.
- Bagged items often get thrown out since facilities can’t safely determine what’s inside without risk to their employees.
No recyclables in a plastic bag
Loose recyclables
Boxboard, paperboard and your typical shipping boxes are all recyclable, and it’s fine if you leave on the tape and labels. But remember to cut down and flatten your boxes prior to placing them in the recycling bin.
There are a few cardboard noes
though. A good rule to follow is this: If the cardboard container goes into the freezer, it’s best to just throw it away. Those boxes are usually covered in a thin layer of plastic to prevent them from getting soggy.
Additionally, cardboard can’t have any food residue or grease stains – a greasy pizza box is not recyclable, but you can always rip off the clean top of the box and put it in your recycling bin.
Cereal boxes
Shipping boxes
Tissue boxes
No greasy pizza boxes
Why all the hoopla about recycling? Recycling offers countless benefits.
- Recycling reduces the amount of garbage that goes into landfills.
- Recycling is great for the economy – locally and statewide. It provides jobs and creates opportunities for businesses.
- Reusing materials we’ve already created helps conserve natural resources.
- Recycling reduces pollution, including greenhouse gases.
- Recycling helps protect our wildlife habitats.
Flattened cardboard
Metal cans of various sizes
Plastic jugs, containers and bottles
Office paper and folders
Newspapers
Junk mail
Keep up the good work, Leelanau County!
If you still have questions about what’s recyclable and what’s not, Leelanau County Recycling can help.
Leelanau County Recycling
8527 E. Government Center Dr. Suite 108
Suttons Bay MI, 49682
231-256-9812
These rules are true of all curbside recycling and drop-off programs for residents of Leelanau County. If you live outside the county, you’ll want to check with your local recycling provider for your specific rules and information.
