Is there a mandatory multifamily recycling ordinance in Lakewood, CO?

As of November 10, 2025, Lakewood does not have a citywide mandatory multifamily recycling ordinance. Properties typically arrange recycling directly with licensed haulers under Lakewood Municipal Code §5.29 (Commercial Waste Haulers), and recycling terms are guided by City programs and education. See: Lakewood §5.29 (Hauler Licensing) and City Recycling pages.

What is the Mandate Type for Lakewood multifamily recycling?

Mandate Type: Education / Access Encouragement. Lakewood promotes recycling access and education but does not impose a universal, code-based requirement that all multifamily properties provide recycling service. Relevant references: Lakewood §5.29 (hauler licensing), §13.06.027 (recycling definitions), and City Trash & Recycling guidance.

Is there an Applicability Threshold (e.g., number of units) that triggers mandatory recycling for apartments?

No threshold is specified in Lakewood’s municipal code for a mandatory multifamily recycling requirement. The City’s framework relies on licensed haulers and voluntary participation. Property managers are responsible for establishing service with a licensed hauler.

How should Lakewood apartment communities set up recycling to be compliance-ready?

Work with a licensed hauler under LMC §5.29; provide clearly labeled recycling containers as convenient as trash; share move-in and annual recycling instructions; and track diversion with hauler reports. City resources: Trash & Recycling (Zero Waste & Circularity), Public Works Recycling, and the Quail Street Recycling Center for supplemental drop-off. Jefferson County provides additional directories for specialty materials.

Does Jefferson County have a separate multifamily recycling mandate?

Jefferson County, CO does not impose a countywide mandatory multifamily recycling ordinance. The County supports diversion through planning policies, facility funds, and resource directories, while municipalities like Lakewood manage program details. See: Jeffco Recycling Directory and Solid Waste Disposal Site & Facility Fund Policy.

Can National Doorstep manage our Lakewood recycling program end-to-end?

Yes. National Doorstep provides turnkey valet trash & recycling: on-site audit, container right-sizing, signage and education, contamination reduction, and documentation to align with City guidance—so you’re prepared if local requirements expand.

Lakewood, CO Apartment & Multifamily Recycling Ordinance | Apartment Mandate Solutions — National Doorstep Valet Trash 844-APT-TRASH

National Doorstep - The Valet Trash Service Experts

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 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 recycling 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

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At a Glance: City of Lakewood vs Jefferson County

City of Lakewood

Jefferson County (Regional Context)

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