Beyond the Cart

Recycling and compost giveaway events

Have stuff to recycle that doesn't go in your cart? Bring it to a Recycling & Reuse Collection event! We host six events a year to collect items for recycling and reuse that can't go in your home recycle carts or dumpsters. Events are free and open to all Seattle residents.

2025 recycling and reuse collection events

Check back for additional event details. 

Other options for recycling and disposal:

Accepted items:

  • Foam blocks (polystyrene only)
  • Household batteries (Both ends must be taped with clear packing tape. No damaged/corroded batteries allowed)
  • Florescent tubes and bulbs (no broken bulbs, limit: 4 ft.)
  • Small, empty propane camping canisters
  • Small electronics (TVs, computers, etc.)
  • Small appliances (non-freon)
  • Paper for shredding
  • Household textiles

Items not accepted:

  • Commercial loads
  • Furniture
  • Garbage
  • Yard waste
  • Household recycling (items that go in your cart/dumpster)
  • Hazardous waste
  • Automotive waste
  • Construction waste
  • Non-recyclable or reusable items
  • Car seats
  • Mattresses

Free compost giveaway events

This year we’re partnering with communities to host smaller community-focused events to get compost to those who have less equitable access.

The compost at these events is made from your clean household food and yard waste. When you put in clean food and yard waste, it is turned in to this great compost that provides soil nutrients to your garden.

These events giveaway bulk compost, so remember to bring a shovel and a container to load and haul your compost.

2025 Compost Giveaway Events

Check back for more compost giveaway events in 2025.

Public Utilities

Andrew Lee, General Manager and CEO
Address: 700 5th Avenue, Suite 4900, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: PO Box 34018, Seattle, WA, 98124-5177
Phone: (206) 684-3000
SPUCustomerService@seattle.gov

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Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is comprised of three major direct-service providing utilities: the Water Utility, the Drainage and Wastewater Utility, and the Solid Waste Utility.