Sorting garbage, recycling and organics
Don't know if you can recycle something? We can help.
Facebook, Tweet or Instagram a photo @CityofHayward with #CanIRecycleThis, or email a description to recycling@hayward-ca.gov. You can also use StopWaste's RE:Source guide below for answers on what's accepted in Hayward.
Recycle:
- All plastic containers (1-7)
- All metal containers
- All glass containers
- Paper and cardboard
Compost:
- Yard Trimmings
- Food Scraps
- Soiled paper plates, cardboard boxes, and paper towels
- Untreated wood
- Avoid “biodegradable” plastic bag and utensils – these don’t biodegrade fast enough
Garbage:
- Coffee cups
- Plastic utensils and straws
- Plastic bags and wrappers
- Fabric and clothes that cannot be donated
- Ceramics and Porcelain
- Containers with multiple layers, like juice bags and boxes
- Foam packaging
See our guides for more information: Residential Guide to Recycling Services.pdf
Business Recycling Mandates.pdf
Business Guide to Recycling Services.pdf
- View more Commercial Recycling Tips
- View more Residential Recycling Tips
- See what happens to your trash after it's hauled away by the garbage truck.
- Donate - Search for places to donate your used items.
- View the Franchise Agreement between the City and Waste Management of Alameda County here.
- Learn more about the facilities that collect and process your waste here.
Household Hazardous Waste – bring your hazardous items for free to the Hayward Household Waste Facility at 2091 West Winton Avenue, Hayward. Acceptable Items include fluorescent bulbs, paints, stains, solvents, adhesives, garden and auto chemicals, batteries, electronic waste.