Mountain View accepts a variety of recyclables in the residential, business and school recycling programs based on market value and sustainability. However, recyclables that do not have enough market value to merit the costs of collection and processing (such as plastic bags, scrap metal, and polystyrene packaging foam and peanuts) may still be accepted at the SMaRT Station's Drop-Off Center. Don't forget that plastic grocery bags can also be recycled at your local grocery store or you may also choose a reusable bag for your grocery items.
See below for a general overview of what's recyclable or click here for a more detailed list. Be sure to check the labels on your recycling containers to determine where recyclables should be placed.
Mixed Containers
Glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles and wide-mouth tubs marked #1 through #7, metal cans and lids (tin, steel and aluminum).
Mixed Paper
Newspapers, catalogs, telephone books, magazines, cereal boxes, paper egg cartons, junk mail, shredded paper, writing paper, and small pieces of flattened cardboard. (Sorry, no plastic bags, paper milk cartons, or pizza boxes are accepted).
Cardboard
For residential properties, large cardboard should be cut into pieces about 3'x3' and placed against the recycling cart for manual collection. If you have several pieces of carboard, please tie or bundle pieces together for easier collection. Place small cardboard pieces into the mixed paper side of cart (grey lid). Businesses and schools may place cardboard in the mixed recycling or cardboard dumpsters.
Motor Oil and Oil Filters (homes only)
Put used motor oil and filters in containers provided by Foothill Disposal (650-967-3034) and set on top of curb near the split-cart. You may also take used motor oil, filters, antifreeze, and other vehicle fluids to the SMaRT Station, 301 Carl Road, Sunnyvale for free disposal (408-752-8530).
Household Batteries (homes only)
Place used household batteries in the bag provided by Foothill Disposal (650-967-3034) and set on top of split-cart. Foothill will empty it and return the bag to you to reuse. You may also take used household batteries to either the Mountain View Recycling Center, 935 Terra Bella Avenue, Mountain View or to the SMaRT Station, 301 Carl Road, Sunnyvale for free disposal (408-752-8530). For safety, we recommend that you tape battery terminals to reduce the risk of fire and other hazards.
