District of Columbia property owners and community managers: simplify recycling compliance while boosting resident satisfaction. National Doorstep’s valet trash & recycling service aligns with District of Columbia source-separation requirements to reduce contamination and enhance NOI — all with a turnkey program.
In Washington, DC, source separation and adequate waste collection are mandatory for multifamily and commercial generators under the DC Code. DPW provides service to single-family and buildings with three (3) or fewer units; properties with four (4) or more units must arrange private recycling/trash service. Large “private collection properties,” including multifamily with 80+ units, must submit an annual Source Separation Plan and meet added requirements (container capacity, signage/education, recordkeeping).
- NOI & Property Value Lift: Increase ancillary income and retention with a visible sustainability amenity.
- Resident Convenience & Cleanliness: Doorstep recycling reduces overflow and contamination.
- Right-Sized Service: Meet DC’s minimum capacity of 32 gallons per occupied unit per week and ensure equal volume access to recycling vs. trash.
- Local Alignment: Compatible with DC Code §8-1031.03 (Source Separation), DC Code §8-1031.04 (Adequate Collection & Plans), DPW — Source Separation Plans, and Zero Waste DC — Residents.
At a Glance: Washington, DC
- Jurisdiction: District of Columbia
- Mandate Type: Mandatory Recycling / Source Separation and Mandatory Adequate Collection (DC Code Title 8, Ch. 10A)
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Applicability Threshold:
- Service Responsibility: DPW collects for ≤3 units; multifamily 4+ units must provide private recycling & trash service.
- Large Sites: Multifamily with 80+ units are “private collection properties” that must file an annual Source Separation Plan (due April 1) and maintain records.
- Container Capacity: Minimum of 32 gallons per occupied unit per week; provide equal volume access to recycling and trash; containers labeled and secured as required.
- Accepted (typical): Paper, cardboard, metal cans, plastic bottles/jugs (#1–#2), glass bottles/jars (confirm current list with your hauler or DPW).
- Not Accepted: Plastic bags/film, Styrofoam, hazardous waste, electronics, bulky items (special handling).
- References: DC Code §8-1031.03 · DC Code §8-1031.04 · DPW — Source Separation Plans · Zero Waste DC — Residents · DPW Recycling Fines Schedule
Fines & Penalties Snapshot
- Recycling Violations (21 DCMR § 700 et seq.): $200 for 1st offense; $600 for 2nd within 60 days; $1,500 for 3rd within 60 days. (DPW Recycling Regulations)
- Collection & Contamination Surcharges: DC Code § 8-1031.11 imposes a minimum $13.38 per ton transfer fee and additional surcharges for recycling loads exceeding contamination thresholds.
- Non-Compliance with §§ 8-1031.03 or 8-1031.04: The Mayor may assess civil penalties or double fees for continued violations. (DC Solid Waste Management Act)
Property Manager Compliance Checklist
| Task | Action / Requirement | Resources / Links |
|---|---|---|
| ☑ Provide Recycling & Trash Service | For 4+ unit buildings, contract a licensed hauler for recycling and trash; ensure separate collection and compliant delivery. | DPW — Service Overview |
| ☑ Meet Capacity & Container Standards | Provide at least 32 gal/unit/week capacity; co-locate recycling with trash; provide equal volume access; secure lids and clear labels. | DC Code §8-1031.04(a)(1) · DPW One-Pager |
| ☑ Annual Resident Education | Provide move-in packets, bin-side signage, and annual communication on what to recycle and how to set out. | §8-1031.04(a)(2) |
| ☑ Annual Staff Training | Train janitorial/operations staff on source separation and container management at least once per year. | §8-1031.04(a)(3) |
| ☑ Designate a Compliance Agent | Appoint an individual to implement the program and coordinate with DPW and haulers. | §8-1031.04(a)(4) |
| ☑ File Source Separation Plan (80+ units) | Multifamily 80+ units: submit Source Separation Plan by April 1 each year; include agent/contact, hauler info, generation data, education program, and diversion strategy. Maintain 5-year records. | DPW — SSP · §8-1031.04(b) |
| ☑ Monitor Hauler & Contamination | Verify separate collection and proper delivery; track contamination and adjust resident education to avoid surcharges or fines. | Fines Schedule |
Washington, DC Recycling — Compliance Summary
- ☑ Jurisdiction Type: District of Columbia
- ☑ Mandate Type: Mandatory Recycling / Source Separation and Mandatory Adequate Collection
- ☑ Applicability Thresholds: DPW serves ≤3 units; 4+ units must provide private service; 80+ units must file an annual Source Separation Plan
- ☑ Key Specs: 32 gal/unit/week minimum capacity; equal volume recycling vs trash; annual resident education & staff training; labeled containers & signage
- ☑ Penalties: Fines of $200 (1st), $600 (2nd within 60 days), $1,500 (3rd within 60 days); plus possible surcharges under § 8-1031.11
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