Standardization of Waste Decals

Standardizing waste container decals will help provide clear and consistent information about the contents of containers, enabling users to place the correct materials in the correct containers. Clear labels allow customers to differentiate between trash (garbage), recycling, and yard waste, reducing contamination and increasing recycling rates. By promoting cohesive education citywide using visual decals and text on commercial waste containers, the City of Gainesville continues its efforts towards responsible waste management and fostering sustainable practices.

Per Sec. 27-75.d.2.b of the City of Gainesville Code of Ordinances: “By October 1, 2023, every commercial service container, except for construction and demolition debris collection containers, shall follow the City’s approved color and educational labeling format as set forth in ordinance and regulations maintained on file with the solid waste division” The standardized labels are to be on all commercial dumpsters, compactors, and carts used to provide trash (garbage), recycling and yard waste commercial collection services.

Here are the four basic waste container decals:

TRASH - Dispose of trash (garbage) in this container.

or  

RECYCLING ONLY - Recycle materials only in this container. Check other signage on the container to determine which recyclables are accepted.

PAPER RECYCLING ONLY - Recycle only paper materials in this container. Check other signage on the container to determine which recyclable papers are accepted.

YARD WASTE ONLY - Recycle only yard waste in this container. This includes leaves, grass clippings, limbs and branches.