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Organics recycling
Organics recycling is another opportunity to significantly reduce trash. About one-third of what we throw away is organic material, such as food scraps and non-recyclable paper.
As of January 1, 2022, Hennepin County cities are required to offer organics recycling. Maple Grove residents who choose to recycle organics will need to contract for organics service with their refuse hauler. The licensed refuse haulers have options available.
Getting started
Hennepin County has helpful presentations for first time organics participants:
Organics basics (PowerPoint presentation)
Setting up organics (PowerPoint presentation)
Organics recycling guide (PDF)
Compost bins
Compost bins are for sale year-round at the Hennepin County drop-off facility in Brooklyn Park. Find information on the Hennepin County website.
Drop-off
Organics are accepted at Hennepin County drop-off facilities in Brooklyn Park and Bloomington. More information is available on the Green Disposal Guide.
Materials accepted
- Bakery and dry goods
- Dairy products
- Eggs and egg shells
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, fish and bones
- Napkins, paper towels and tissues
- Paper egg cartons
- Pizza boxes from delivery
Compostable paper and plastic cups, plates, bowls, utensils and containers. Look for the BPI or Cedar Grove logos or the term "compostable" on certified products.
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Cotton balls and swabs with paper stems
- Hair and nail clippings
- Houseplants and flowers
- Tea bags
- Wooden items such as chopsticks, Popsicle sticks and toothpicks
Materials not accepted in organics recycling
- Animal and pet waste
- Cleaning or baby wipes
- Diapers and sanitary products
- Dryer sheets and lint
- Frozen food boxes
- Grease or oil
- Gum
- Litter or bedding
- Microwave popcorn bags
- Polystyrene foam
- Products labeled "biodegradable"
- Recyclable items (cartons, glass, metal, paper, plastic)
- Yard waste