Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up for curbside recycling?

To start service contact Recology Eel River  (formerly Eel River Disposal & Resource Recovery) located at 965 Riverwalk Drive in Fortuna, or call 725-5156.

Do I need to have garbage service in order to get a recycling toter?

Yes, but you have an option of garbage service for a 20 gallon can vs. the traditional 32 gallon can, and if you actively recycle you will find the 20 gallon size can to be sufficient for a family of 4 to 6 people.

When is the recycling toter emptied?

The recycling toters are emptied the first and third weeks of the month on your normal garbage pickup day. Be sure that the toter is placed in a truck assessable area at least 5 ft. away from any other objects as this is an automated process and there needs to be room for the arm on the truck to pick up the toter.

Are there any other places I can recycle in Rio Dell if I do not have garbage service?

Yes, the City of Rio Dell encourages all of its residents to recycle at its drop off bin located in the parking lot behind City Hall at 675 Wildwood Avenue.

What can I put in the recycling toter or in the free drop off bin at City Hall?

Please see our Recycling Program page for a list of items that can and can’t be deposited in the toters or in the bin at City Hall.

Where can I recycle used motor oil?

Napa Auto Parts located at 33 Center Street is a used oil drop off site. Call 764-5632 for more information.

What kind of waste can I put in my tote?

Plastic Containers

  • All CRV* plastic accepted (*California Refund Value)
  • #1 PETE clear and colored bottles e.g water and soda bottles
  • #2 HDPE translucent e.g. milk jugs
  • #2 HDPE colored or opaque bottles e.g. oil, detergent, etc.
  • #1-#7 rigid plastic containers e.g. salsa, margarine, yogurt, etc.
  • “soft” plastic e.g. plastic bags or plastic wrap

Glass Bottles and Jars

  • All colors accepted and labels are o.k. with the lids removed
  • NO window glass, ceramics, dishes, mirrors, etc.

Aluminum/Steel/Tin Cans and Aluminum Foil

  • All CRV cans accepted
  • Soup/food cans
  • Pet food containers
  • Rinsed and food free
  • Labels are o.k.

Newspapers/Cardboard/Paper Bags

  • Newspaper inserts are o.k.
  • Corrugated cardboard must be dry
  • Please flatten and remove all packing materials
  • NO milk cartons, waxed cardboard, or 6 pack holders, paper plates, cups etc.

Magazines, Catalogs, & Office Waste Paper

  • Mix of all junk mail, home and office paper
  • Pamphlets and brochures
  • NO plastic or foil gift wrap
  • NO photographs/overheads

Please do not place any styrofoam packaging products, household food waste, greenwaste, or liquid products in the recycling toter.