FAQs

FAQs for Recycling Drop-off Program

• What is a recycling drop-off program?

A recycling drop-off program is a community-based initiative that allows community members to drop off recyclable materials at designated collection sites.  This is a great way to recycle when curbside pickup is unavailable.

• Where can I find the recycling drop-off locations nearest to me?

You can find the nearest Coeur d'Alene drop-off location at Coeur d'Alene Recycling Centre,  or you can contact us at (509) 370-5324.

• Are there specific hours of operation for recycling drop-off locations?

Yes, the drop-off hours at our Coeur d'Alene location are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• What materials can I drop off?

Below is a list of what can be dropped off. Please also visit our webpage at What to bring!, for more information and other program guidelines.

1. Plastic bottles and jugs

2. Aluminum and steel cans

3. Glass bottles and jars

4. Cardboard (flatten) (No Pizza Boxes or used food containers)

5. Newspaper, junk mail, mixed paper – all colors and types.

All containers should be empty, dry and free of all food and food residue. Unclean containers and food can cause odors and attract pests. Replace caps on empty plastic containers.

• Do I need to sort my recyclables before dropping them off?

Yes, because our recycling is collected separately in different bins it would be more convenient and quicker for you to sort your recycling before you arrive.  Please sort your recyclables by type of material to go in the separate bins at the site.

1. Aluminum

2. Steel Cans

3. Glass (only bottles and jars)

4. Plastic Jug & Bottles

5. Mixed Paper (No coated or waxed paper)

6. Cardboard

• Can I drop off materials in plastic bags?

No, recyclables should not be placed in plastic bags inside drop-off containers, as they pose safety, mechanical, and quality concerns at recycling facilities. Use reusable bins for storage and transport. If bags are necessary, empty them into the collection containers and take them with you. All recyclables must be loose in the bin.

• Can I drop off soiled or dirty materials, like pizza boxes with grease stains?

No, heavily soiled items with food or grease, as well as containers still containing food, should not be dropped off. These can contaminate the recycling stream and attract pests, insects, and rodents.

• Do I need to remove labels and caps from bottles and containers before recycling them?

No, leave labels and caps on bottles and containers.

• Can I recycle plastic bags or plastic wrap at the recycling drop-off?  

No, plastic bags and wrap can jam recycling facility equipment. Household plastic film—such as grocery bags, drink case wrapping, cling wrap, and bubble wrap—can be recycled at most large retail or grocery stores. Many people collect clean, dry plastic film and drop it off periodically for recycling.

• Can I recycle shredded paper at the recycling drop-off?

Yes, shredded paper is accepted in the recycling container if placed in a paper bag. This prevents litter at the drop-off site and ensures proper processing.

• Are there any restrictions on the size or quantity of materials I can drop off?

No, there are no size restrictions; however, space at our drop-off locations is limited, and all materials must fit within designated bins. If you have large items or excessive quantities, please contact the site director to arrange appropriate storage.

• What happens to the materials I drop off for recycling?

Dropped-off materials are sent to a local vendor for sorting and processing. They are then recycled into new products, conserving resources and supporting a circular economy.

• What do I do with items like light bulbs or batteries?

Light bulbs and batteries are classified as hazardous waste and should not be disposed of in regular recycling. Please reach out to your tribal environmental department for guidance on proper disposal locations.

• What should I do with old electronics, such as computers or smartphones?

We accept a limited range and quantity of electronics at our recycling drop-off locations. For a detailed list of accepted items, please contact Isiah Havier at (509) 370-5324 or visit our website. Additionally, we host annual electronics recycling events, with dates and details available on our website.

• What happens if I mistakenly put non-recyclable items in the recycling bin at a drop-off location?

Placing non-recyclable items in recycling can disrupt processing, create safety hazards, increase labor demands, and raise costs. Please follow posted signage at drop-off locations to know what can and cannot be recycled in that location.

• Are there any items that are never accepted at recycling drop-off centers?

Yes, items like medical waste, hazardous chemicals, and sharp objects are not accepted at our recycling drop-off. These items require specialized disposal methods. 

• What should I do with materials that aren't accepted at the drop-off?

Non-accepted materials, including hazardous waste and large appliances, should be properly disposed of or recycled at designated facilities. For disposal options, contact your local trash disposal company or tribal environmental department.

For more information contact Isiah Havier, Recycling Coordinator, Coeur d'Alene Tribe, & Tribal Recycling Alliance (TRA) at ihavier@tswan.org or (509) 370-5324.