Garbage and Recycling

The collection of residential trash and recycling is divided into two collection districts. Each district is served by either Republic Services or Randy’s Environmental Services. More information on garbage collection services can be found here. Wondering about cart placement, or what to do if you've been missed on your collection day? Click here for more information.

Recycling          

The City of Elk River also offers every-other-week single stream recycling service. Your collection week depends on where you live in the city and your hauler's route. Click here for more information.

Recycling Cardboard

Why recycle corrugated cardboard?

Up to 65% less energy is required to make new paper from recycled paper than from virgin wood. Every ton of recycled paper saves approximately 17 trees.

What is corrugated cardboard recycled into?

Corrugated cardboard is collected, baled, and taken to a paper mill where it is mixed with hot water turned into pulp. The pulp is screened for contaminants, cleaned, often de-inked and bleached, and then made into paper products. Corrugated cardboard can be recycled into new corrugated cardboard, boxboard, puzzles, games, and items such as tablet backing.

Read about recycling myths here and help make the biggest impact. 

Organics Recycling/Compost               

Organic food waste recycling is available via our voluntary, free drop off program. Items are collected at home in special compostable bags and taken to two locations for collection. Click here for more information.

2022 Garbage and Recycling Rate Information

Sherburne County Hazardous Waste Events

Dispose of household chemicals, paint, cleaners, batteries and more at the county's numerous events. These events are free to all Sherburne County residents (I.D. required).  Click here for upcoming event information, and to view a list of accepted items. More information is also available on the Sherburne County website.

Hauler Update: Randy's & Republic

In December 2020, Randy's Environmental Services was acquired by Republic Services. They now operate as "Randy's Sanitation, a Republic Services Company". Since the transition, very little has changed for Elk River customers. Randy's and Republic drivers continue to operate in their zones within the city. Randy's brown carts will be replaced with Republic's services carts later in 2023. Watch for further updates.

Driver Shortage and Service

Please be aware, like many industries, solid waste providers have been experiencing post-pandemic laborer issues, specifically a shortage in waste collection drivers. This driver shortage may impact some of our services including cart delivery (for new homes or size changes). Both haulers are actively hiring and training new drivers in an effort to provide the best service possible to customers. These staffing changes can also affect the time for trash and recycling pick-ups, so be sure your cart is outside early, on collection day. Just because your collection is typically in the afternoon, doesn’t mean it will always be within that “normal” timeframe.