The mission of the Department of Recycling and Materials Management is to develop and implement a sustainable materials management strategy for Tompkins County. With a focus on the state’s solid waste management hierarchy, this approach utilizes and prioritizes environmentally sound, cost-effective, socially responsible, and safe practices. This is accomplished through coordinated administrative, operational, and educational programs that maximize diversion with the 4R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink) as a focal point.
Notice of Fee Updates for 2026
Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management will implement updated fees beginning January 1, 2026
- Solid Waste Annual Fee:
Increases from $82 per residential unit to $85 per unit.
This fee supports essential programs such as recycling, organics collection, waste reduction initiatives, closed landfill maintenance, administration, and household hazardous waste collection events.
- Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Fee:
Increases to $110 per ton, with a $20 minimum fee.
The tiered pricing structure will be eliminated to simplify transactions and ensure fairness for all customers.
- Tire Disposal Fee:
Increases from $4 per tire to $5 per tire.
Disposal by weight will increase from $300 per ton to $350 per ton.
- Recycling Bin Fee:
Bins will be available for $12 each.
Our online store is temporarily unavailable.
You may purchase permits, punch cards and coupons in person during business hours:
Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management Office
122 Commercial Ave
Ithaca, NY
14850
Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Call us if you have any questions:
(607) 273-6632
Find your recycling day
or use our What do I do with...? tool
Winter 2025 Newsletter Now Available
Check out the latest edition of the 4R Times Newsletter
(PDF, 6MB)Winter 2025 Newsletter PDF(PDF, 6MB)
Food Scraps Recycling
Drop your food scraps for free at Drop Spots throughout Tompkins County