FAQs • Smyrna, DE • CivicEngage

Can I refuse to take the recycling cart and not participate in the program?: Yes, but the town is required to provide each customer with a recycling opportunity, which includes providing a special cart for such a purpose. You can choose not to recycle but the town has to provide the service as required by state law.

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Recycling

1. Can I use my designated recycling cart for trash?: No, the recycling cart is intended to be used for recyclable items only. Recyclable items do not go to the same disposal point as regular trash.

2. Can I refuse to take the recycling cart and not participate in the program?: Yes, but the town is required to provide each customer with a recycling opportunity, which includes providing a special cart for such a purpose. You can choose not to recycle but the town has to provide the service as required by state law.

3. Will I still pay the full charge for trash collection if I do not participate?: Yes, the town's service includes a regular trash and recycling collection day each week which is included in the monthly trash billing. You do not get a discount or rebate if you choose to not participate.

4. Is the recycling cart I receive my personal property or does it belong to the town?: Carts belong to the town but are designated for a specific address for your use. They remain with the property when you relocate or discontinue service. Defective or damaged carts should be reported to the Business Office by calling 302-653-9231 for replacement.

5. Is there a charge for the recycling cart?: No, the town has received a state grant to purchase recycling carts to be provided to our customers. The first cart is provided at no cost; there may be a charge for lost, intentionally damaged, or extra carts.

6. Are all residents of Smyrna included in the Town’s recycling program? Will businesses be included? Are apartment complexes with dumpsters included in the town program?: All current Town of Smyrna trash customers are included in the town's program. A limited number of businesses in town are served by the town (typically those with no room for a dumpster). Others will be provided recycling services by their independent trash contractor. Apartment complexes with dumpsters are serviced by an independent trash contractor and are not included in the town program.

7. Will the Recycling Center behind DHCI remain in service?: The DHCI facility is operated by DSWA. They are phasing out those collection centers in the near future.

8. Can I dispose of yard waste with trash and recycling?: No, by state law yard waste can not be included in either the regular trash or recyclable collections. Check the Yard Waste Collection webpage for more information.