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.
Check out our Introduction to On-Farm Composting video!
International Compost Awareness Week is here!
This year’s theme, “Feed the Soil That Feeds Us,” reminds us how important composting is for healthy farms and healthy communities.
We’re excited to share our brand‑new On‑Farm Composting video, created from last spring’s workshop with guidance from Jean Bonhotal of the New York Center for Organics Recycling and Education and partially funded by USDA.
Watch and learn how to build soil, reduce waste, and support sustainable farming.
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Sign-ups Open!
Sign-ups for our July 18th Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) event are open. Reserve your spot now.
Solid waste permit and appointment required.
Spring 2026 Newsletter Now Available
Check out the latest edition of the 4R Times Newsletter
Spring 2026 Newsletter PDF(PDF, 4MB)
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
Food Scraps Recycling
Drop your food scraps for free at Drop Spots throughout Tompkins County