Lakewood property owners and community managers: improve recycling access and resident satisfaction while preparing for future waste-diversion requirements. National Doorstep’s valet trash & recycling service aligns with City of Lakewood guidance and Jefferson County sustainability goals to simplify recycling access and enhance NOI — all with a turnkey program.
Unlike Denver or Fort Collins, Lakewood currently does not have a mandatory multifamily recycling ordinance. The City licenses waste haulers (Lakewood Municipal Code § 5.29) and encourages recycling through its Public Works Recycling Division, but multifamily properties are not yet legally required to provide recycling service. Jefferson County supports this framework through regional waste-diversion initiatives under its Solid Waste Management Plan but likewise imposes no specific “mandatory offer” rule.
- Boost NOI & Sustainability: Add recycling amenities that improve curb appeal and resident retention.
- Resident Convenience & Cleanliness: Doorstep recycling service eliminates overflow and contamination.
- Stay Ahead of Regulation: Colorado’s evolving diversion goals make early adoption smart risk management.
- Local & County Coordination: Works with licensed haulers and Jefferson County waste-reduction programs.
At a Glance: City of Lakewood vs Jefferson County
City of Lakewood
- Mandate Type: Education / Access Encouragement (no formal mandatory multifamily requirement).
- Applicability Threshold: N/A – No threshold defined in City Code.
- Key Code References:
- Hauler Licensing & Requirements: LMC § 5.29
- Refuse & Litter Regulations: LMC Ch. 9.12
- Recycling Definitions & Standards: LMC § 13.06.027
- Program Highlights: Properties voluntarily arrange recycling service with licensed haulers; city provides drop-off centers and resident education.
- City Resources: Lakewood Recycling Page · Zero Waste & Circularity Program
Jefferson County (Regional Context)
- Mandate Type: Voluntary Participation / Regional Diversion Goal under County Solid Waste Management Plan.
- Applicability Threshold: County plan encourages all multifamily & commercial generators to offer recycling access; not enforced by ordinance.
- County Framework & Goals:
- Target ≥ 40% waste diversion countywide by 2030.
- Encourage municipal partnerships and voluntary recycling programs for multifamily housing.
- Key County Links: Jefferson County Solid Waste Management Plan · Jefferson County Recycling Resources
Fines & Penalties Snapshot (Lakewood Code Enforcement)
While Lakewood does not impose recycling-specific fines on multifamily properties, general solid waste and litter violations under LMC § 9.12.070 may result in penalties of up to $2,650 per offense and/or up to one year imprisonment, per LMC Ch. 1.16 (General Penalty). Repeat violations can result in daily citations. Property owners are expected to maintain refuse areas free of litter, provide secure containers, and ensure licensed hauler use.
Stay ahead of future mandates and reduce overflow now. Request a Free Compliance Audit for your Lakewood property — we’ll evaluate your current setup and design a turnkey recycling solution aligned with City & County goals.
Interested in talking about how we can work together? Here's our contact info.
