Break it down: Help keep cardboard recycling sites clean

Roseville’s seven free cardboard recycling sites are meant to give residents an easy place to recycle boxes. But not all cardboard is making it into the bins, and some sites are also being used for illegal dumping.  

That misuse creates extra cleanup, makes the sites less convenient for residents, and can interfere with recycling.  

“These sites are here to make recycling cardboard easy for our residents,” said Wes Heathcock, Waste Services Utility Manager. “We just ask people to flatten their boxes and make sure they’re only putting cardboard in the bins. When trash gets left at the sites, it creates problems for everyone and makes it harder to provide this free service.” 

Cardboard only, and break it down 

Residents can also help by breaking down and flattening cardboard boxes before putting them in the bins. 

Unflattened boxes take up much more space and can cause a bin to fill faster, even when there is room for more cardboard. Breaking boxes down allows more residents to use the bin before it needs to be emptied. 

When using a cardboard recycling site: 

• Recycle cardboard only (clean, dry cardboard is accepted; remove packing materials first). 
• Break down and flatten all boxes before placing them in the bin. 
• Do not leave household garbage, furniture, plastic bags, or other items at the site, as they can become wet, contaminated, or scattered.   
• If a bin is full, do not leave cardboard or other materials on the ground – consider another recycling site or call (916) 774-5780.  

The seven recycling sites are provided as convenient service for residents. Using them properly helps keep the locations clean, keeps bins available for cardboard, and reduces unnecessary cleanup. 

Find a convenient cardboard recycling site near you at roseville.ca.gov/recycling.