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1. Who can participate in the food scraps drop-off program?

The food scraps drop-off program is for residents who are recycling food scraps at home. The program is open to residents of Washington and Ramsey counties.

2. Are food scraps accepted from businesses?

No, food scraps are not accepted from businesses. Visit BizRecycling.com for details on business recycling.

3. How do I get started?

Visit the Food Scraps information page on Washington County's website. 

4. How often can I drop off food scraps?

You can drop off food scraps as often as you like during operating hours. 

5. Do I need to use a compostable bag?

A compostable bag (either BPI certified compostable or paper bag) is required if bagging your food scraps. Plastic bags are not compostable and are considered a contaminant at the commercial composting facilities that process the food scraps. 

6. Will the food scraps smell and attract pests?

Odors will be similar to regular trash and will not attract pests if managed properly. Dropping off your food
scraps on a weekly basis will help minimize odor and pests.

7. Could I put yard waste in with my food scraps?

No. Please keep food scraps separate from yard waste. Search the Disposal Directory to find a list of yard waste drop-off locations. 

8. How are food scraps recycled?

The food scraps collected are recycled at a local facility and turned into compost. 

9. What materials are accepted?

Food

• Fruit and vegetables
• Meat, fish, and bones
• Dairy products
• Eggs and egg shells
• Bread, pasta, beans, and rice
• Nuts and shells
• Coffee grounds, filters, and tea bags
• Animal and pet food

Non-recyclable paper

• Paper towels, napkins, and tissues
• Pizza delivery boxes
• Dirty paper bags

Certified compostable products

• BPI certified compostable paper and plastic cups, plates, bowls, utensils, and containers
• Look for the BPI logo to ensure it is compostable

Other residential compostable items

• Hair, fur, and nail clippings
• Cotton balls and swabs with paper stems (must not have been used with chemicals)
•  Houseplants and flowers

10. What materials are not accepted?

Not accepted:

• Yard waste 
• Animal and pet waste, litter, or bedding 
• Dead animals 
• Diapers  
• Cleaning or baby wipes 
• Dryer lint and dryer sheets 
• Items that can be recycled (cartons, glass, metal, paper, plastic) 
• Frozen food boxes 
• StyrofoamTM 
• Rubber 
• Wood