Pollution is a human-based problem, and hurts the environment in many ways — from emitting harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change to resulting in concentrations of debris such as the infamous Great Pacific Garbage Patch in our waterways. The most effective thing we can do to cut back on these emissions and pollution in general, is to make sure we’re disposing our garbage, recycling, and compost properly as per the City of Hoboken’s rules.
Now, if you’re new to Mile Square or even if you’ve lived here a while, you might have noticed that our municpality has some strict regulations when it comes to garbage disposal. To ensure that you’re in compliance with the garbage disposal rules, read up on when each type of garbage is collected, at what time you can put out your garbage curbside, and more.
Not sure when to put out the garbage vs. the recycling? Keep reading for a comprehensive guide to garbage disposal, recycling, and more in Hoboken.
Garbage disposal and waste collection
According to the City of Hoboken’s official website, “To keep Hoboken streets clean and citizens healthy, Environmental Services manages city wide garbage, recycling, and bulk removal programs. The Department also coordinates with the Hudson County Improvement Authority {HCIA} to provide drop-off days for household hazardous materials twice per year.”
{See More: How to Practice Zero-Waste in Hoboken + Jersey City}
Here’s what you need to know about disposing waste in Mile Square: Garbage is to be placed in gray or black covered bins, or alternatively, durable black plastic bags.
Waste collection schedule for garbage Citywide
Citywide, garbage — including non-metal furniture and mattresses — can be put out at the curb {outside of the Limited Business Area} after 7:30 PM on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Comingled recycling, which includes aluminum, glass, and plastics 1, 2, and 5 can be put at the curb {outside of the Limited Business Area} after 7:30 PM on Mondays.
Citywide, metal furniture, appliances, and yard waste {as well as paper recycling, cardboard, and e-waste} can be put out at the curb {outside of the Limited Business Area} after 7:30 PM on Thursdays.
There is no waste collection in Hoboken on Tuesdays or Saturdays.
According to the City of Hoboken’s official website, “Failure to follow this and other municipal ordinances can result in the issuing of a summons.”
Waste collection schedule for garbage in Limited Business Area
According to the City of Hoboken’s official website, the Limited Business Area includes Washington Street, Newark Street, 1st Street, 14th Street, and Hudson Place. In the Limited Business Area, garbage bins may be placed curbside after 9 PM.
{See More: Recycling in Hoboken + Tips on Reducing Your Carbon Footprint}
Garbage — including non-metal furniture and mattresses {as well as cardboard} — is picked up in the Limited Business Area of Hoboken on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. In addition, comingled recycling, which includes aluminum, glass, and plastics 1, 2, and 5 can be put at the curb in the Limited Business Area after 9 PM on Mondays and paper recycling, e-waste, and glass bottles can be put at the curb in the Limited Business Area after 9 PM on Thursdays.
How to properly dispose of appliances
If you are disposing of an appliance such as a refrigerator, washer, dryer, or stove, the City of Hoboken asks that you first remove the doors from the appliance. Appliances can be put curbside for waste collection on Thursdays.
How to properly dispose of yard waste
Paper bags for the purpose of discarding yard waste are available for free at the Hoboken Recycling Center, located at 256 Observer Highway. Grass and leaves can go in these bags, as well as branches, which should be tied in bundles.
How to properly dispose of e-waste
E-waste refers to any electronic device such as computers, televisions, and monitors, and can be put out curbside for waste collection on Thursdays. If you do not want to dispose of your e-waste, Google an e-waste recycling center “near me.”
How to properly dispose of hazardous waste
Hazardous waste includes the following items: non-latex paint, varnish, turpentine, and pesticides. These hazardous materials can be disposed of at the Hudson County Improvement Authority on specific drop-off dates.
The following dates where residents can dispose of hazardous waste are Sunday, October 4 from 9 AM to 1 PM at Gorman Field Parking Lot in Bayonne at West 1st Street near Humphrey Avenue and Hoboken DPW at Willow Avenue and Observer Highway; and Satruday, October 17 from 9 AM to 1 PM at Jersey City DPW at 13-15 Linden Avenue East and Kearny DPW at 357 Bergen Avenue.
How to properly dispose of Christmas trees
Christmas trees should be placed at the curb after 7:30 PM {or after 9 PM the Limited Business Area} on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Trees should not be wrapped in plsatic bags and all ornaments, tinsel, and lights should be removed.
How to properly dispose of old garbage cans
Don’t want your old, stinky garbage can anymore? Place an old garbage can upside down on the curb after 7:30 PM {after 9 PM in the Limited Business Area} on Wednesdays, featuring a paper sign that reads, “This can is garbage.”
What constitutes as metal furniture or appliance?
Metal furniture constitutes metal file cabinets, desks, bed frames, etc. Metal appliances include refrigerators, washers, dryers, and stoves {remove their doors}, air conditioners, and other small metal appliances.
What can be disposed of with regular garbage?
The following items can be disposed of with the regular garbage: vaccuums, coffee makers, blenders, food processors, lamps, lighting fixtures, incandescent light bulbs, alkaline batteries, and latex paint {empty and dry out can first}.
How to properly dispose of demolition waste
The City of Hoboken does not remove demolition or construction waste. Instead, it must be removed privately. This includes sheet rock, concrete, treated lumber, etc.
What can be donated instead of discarded?
Hoboken’s service GreenDrop accepts weekly donations of the following items: clothing, shoes, blankets and bedding, tools, collectibles, kitchenware, toys, musical instruments, and sporting goods.
These donations should be bagged or boxed and labeled with the charity name. GreenDrop drivers pick up on Wednesdays between 7 AM and 7 PM. Call 888-944-3776 or go online to schedule a home pickup.
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