What is recycled in Kearny?

Two types of recyclables are collected at the curbside in Kearny – commingled recyclables and mixed paper.

“Commingling” means mixing these containers in one reusable container, and putting out at the curbside for collection.

To download recycling calendar please click here. 

Commingled recyclables are:

• aluminum beverage and food containers
• glass bottles and jars that contained a food or beverage
• Metal food and beverage cans
• Plastic food, beverage and laundry detergent containers marked with recycling symbols #1 – #7.

Included in the “mixed paper” collection is newspapers, magazines, boxes, telephone books and office paper. Mixed paper may be put at the curbside for collection, preferably in a garbage can or a cardboard box or bundled and tied with string.

Recycling Center

Effective immediately, the Kearny Department of Public Works (DPW) Recycling Center will be open to the public for disposal of recyclable items.  Due to the pandemic, all residents will be required to wear a face covering when entering the DPW yard.  Residents must place items in the designated locations.  At this time, DPW employees will not be able to assist residents in removing recyclable items from vehicles or carrying them to the designated location.

The Kearny Recycling Center is located in the DPW Facility yard at 357 Bergen Avenue. The Center is open 5 days a week, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Closed daily from 12:00 – 1:00 pm and on Holidays.

Items accepted at the Recycling Center are:

• Mixed paper
• Newspaper
• Corrugated cardboard
• Commingled containers
• Motor oil
• Anti-freeze
• Leaves during fall and spring leaf seasons provided they’re in brown leaf bags
• Rubber tires, no rims

Recycling Collection

Curbside recycling is collected on the first garbage collection day in each zone. Commingled recyclables and mixed paper are collected on alternating weeks. Refer to the Recycling Guide and Schedule for the collection schedule in each collection zone.

Electronics Waste Recycling

As of January 1, 2011, computers, laptops, monitors, portable computers and televisions may not be disposed in household garbage. There are two ways for Kearny residents to dispose of items: bringing them to the DPW garage at 357 Bergen Avenue or calling DPW at (201) 998-3700 to schedule a pickup.

Recycling Map