Mandatory Business Recycling Ordinances

While managing your business’ waste, waste prevention should be the top priority. What can’t be prevented should be recycled, when possible.

The City and County of Honolulu requires:

liquor-serving establishments to recycle glass bottles;
large food establishments to recycle food and beverage waste;
and large office buildings to recycle paper, newspaper and cardboard.

Affected businesses are mailed annual notices to fill out a Mandatory Business Recycling Compliance Form. The city conducts year round random inspections of businesses, and also investigates those reported to be in violation. Businesses in violation may be subject to penalties. Businesses that ask for assistance will not be penalized, and a recycling specialist will work with them to set up an effective recycling program.

Recycling requirements may be suspended for any business if the cost to collect and recycle is more than the cost to collect and dispose of the targeted materials.

Two of the most recent ordinances that affect businesses are the Plastic Bag Ban and the Disposable Food Ware Ordinance. Businesses are also affected by waste disposal ordinances that restrict or ban the disposal of green waste, electronic waste, cardboard, tires, auto batteries, white goods and scrap metals. Please report any violations to the Recycling Branch via email to businessrecycle@honolulu.gov or by phone at (808) 768-3200 ext. 6c.