Atlanta property owners and community managers: simplify recycling compliance while boosting resident satisfaction. National Doorstep’s valet recycling service aligns with the City of Atlanta multifamily recycling requirement in City Code § 130-38 (established by Ordinance 07-O-1335) to cut contamination and enhance NOI — all with a turnkey program.
In Atlanta, recycling service is mandatory for multifamily communities with six (6) or more living units. Owners or owners’ associations must furnish commercial containers for recyclables (at minimum the materials in the City’s curbside program) with capacity of not less than three (3) gallons × number of living units. See the full ordinance PDF and city guidance below.
- NOI & Property Value Lift: A visible, compliant recycling amenity supports retention and marketability.
- Resident Convenience & Cleanliness: Doorstep recycling reduces overflow and contamination at enclosures.
- Code-Aligned Containers: Provide clearly marked recycling containers sized per § 130-38 (≥ 3 gal × units) and co-locate near trash.
- Local Alignment: Compatible with City of Atlanta multifamily guidance and reporting practices (see references).
At a Glance: Atlanta, GA
- Jurisdiction: City of Atlanta (Fulton/DeKalb Counties, Georgia)
- Mandate Type: Mandatory Recycling for multifamily dwellings and condo/townhouse associations.
- Applicability Threshold: 6+ living units (apartments, condominiums, townhouses).
- Container Capacity Rule: Minimum total volume of 3 gallons × number of living units.
- Accepted (minimum set): Glass containers, plastics, newspapers, and aluminum cans (plus other materials your hauler supports).
- Reporting/Program Notes: Owners arrange private recycling collection and maintain records/tonnage; see City guidance and audit notes.
- References: City of Atlanta — Multifamily Recycling · Ordinance 07-O-1335 (Full PDF) · ATL311 — Multifamily Recycling · City Audit (June 2025) · Atlanta Code of Ordinances (see § 130-38)
Fines & Penalties Snapshot
While enforcement of §130-38 has been limited historically, the City of Atlanta has authority to issue citations and administrative fines for noncompliance under Chapter 130 (Solid Waste). Based on city code enforcement and general penalty provisions:
- Violation Type: Failure to provide required recycling service or adequate container capacity.
- Penalty Range: Typically $100 – $1,000 per violation, plus possible daily fines until compliance is achieved (per Code § 1-8).
- Corrective Orders: The Public Works Department may issue compliance notices requiring documented correction within a set timeframe.
- Audit Note (2025): The June 2025 City Audit recommended formalizing enforcement and outreach to multifamily property owners to improve compliance.
Always confirm current fine schedules and enforcement procedures with the City’s Department of Public Works or ATL311 before finalizing compliance programs.
Property Manager Compliance Checklist (Atlanta § 130-38)
| Task | Action / Requirement | Resources / Links |
|---|---|---|
| ☑ Confirm Applicability | Property has 6+ living units (apartments/condos/townhouses) — mandate applies. | City — Multifamily Recycling |
| ☑ Provide Recycling Containers | Furnish commercial containers for recyclables; size at least 3 gal × units. Place adjacent to trash with clear labels for residents. | Ordinance 07-O-1335 PDF · ATL311 Article |
| ☑ Contract Hauler & Service | Arrange private collection for required materials (glass, plastics, newspapers, aluminum cans). Set frequency to prevent overflow for residents. | City Guidance |
| ☑ Education & Signage | Provide move-in packets, bin-side signage, and periodic reminders to residents listing accepted items and reducing contamination. | ATL311 — Program Info |
| ☑ Tonnage Tracking & Records | Maintain hauler invoices, tonnage reports, and internal logs/photos. Provide documentation to the City upon request. | City Audit (context) |
| ☑ Service Right-Sizing & Monitoring | Audit fullness and contamination monthly; adjust container count/pickups; ensure resident access and signage remain clear. | City Guidance |
Atlanta Recycling — Compliance Summary
- ☑ Jurisdiction Type: City of Atlanta
- ☑ Mandate Type: Mandatory Recycling for multifamily (City Code § 130-38; Ordinance 07-O-1335)
- ☑ Applicability Threshold: 6+ units (apartments/condos/townhouses)
- ☑ Container Capacity: ≥ 3 gal × number of units; clearly labeled and co-located with trash
- ☑ Accepted Materials (minimum): Glass, plastics, newspapers, aluminum cans
- ☑ Owner Duties: Provide containers, contract a hauler, educate residents, and maintain tonnage records
- ☑ Penalties: Fines typically range from $100–$1,000 per violation under Code § 1-8 if noncompliant
Sources verified: City of Atlanta Multifamily Recycling guidance; City Code § 130-38 (Ordinance 07-O-1335); ATL311 knowledge article; City Recycling Audit (June 2025). Direct ordinance PDF: 07-O-1335.
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