Preparing Recyclables - When in Doubt, Throw it Out

Jun 2026 Recycling

Plastic (Clean & Dry)

  • Numbers 1, & 2 only. Other plastics are no longer accepted due to current market conditions.
  • Empty contents.
  • Items must be clean & dry.
  • Labels and lids can remain.
  • Brown plastic #2 bottles can be recycled. Check the neck! The opening at the top must be smaller than the base of the bottle. 

Paper

  • Remove binder clips.
  • Staples and paper clips can stay.
  • Place shredded paper in a paper bag and tie it shut.

Cardboard

  • Bag small cardboard and paper cartons with other clean recyclables.
  • Break down cardboard bigger than 2'x2' along the seams bundles not exceeding 4' x4' and 30 pounds.
  • Remove other packing material, wraps, tape, and styrofoam - dispose of in trash.
  • Put cardboard bundle beside the bin.
  • Half gallon waxed milk containers with the plastic spout be recycled (half and half containers)

Aerosol Cans

  • Spray to release the remaining pressure and remove nozzle if possible. 

Steel & Aluminum (Clean & Dry)

  • Tin & steel cans
  • Aluminum cans
  • Clean tin foil
  • Pie tins

Household Chemical Containers

  • Clean and dry thoroughly.

Inside the Recycling Bin

  • Use puncture-resistant clear or blue plastic bags only.
  • Bag commingled paper, cardboard, plastics, and cans.
  • Tie bags shut and place them in a recycling bin.

Not Acceptable Recyclables:

  • No food or liquid.
  • No glass. Davidson County recycling drop-off sites only.
  • No plastic bags, plastic wrap, or bubble wrap.
  • No plastic of any kind that is not #1 or #2.
  • No takeout containers, Styrofoam, plastic cups, tubs, plates, etc.
  • No hoses, wires, chains, or electronics.
  • No yard waste.
  • No clothing or linens.
  • No waxed paper.
  • No dirty or greasy items such as paper plates, paper towels, napkins, etc.
  • No diapers.
  • No pictures.
  • No paint.
  • No motor oil.
  • No electronics.
  • No ceramics.
  • No antifreeze.
  • No liquids.
  • No garbage.
  • No lightbulbs.
  • No needles.
  • No batteries.
  • No Lamé or Mylar wrapping paper.
  • No insulated cooling bags or gel / ice packs.
  • No pizza boxes.
  • No dirty / greasy rags or towels.

WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT - OR CITYADMIN [at] OAKHILLTN.US (CONTACT US)!