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Hard to Recycle Events

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Gore Range

We host two Hard to Recycle events a year. These are free events for residential items for people who live and work in Vail and funded with bag fees generated through the Kick the Bag Habit program. Typically, we hold one event in May and one in November. Be sure to check out our 'Get Involved' page if you need more specific information about the events or you would like to volunteer.

 The next event is Friday, May 9,  2025 from 10 am - 3pm at the Ford Park Parking Lot. 

Below is a list of items that will be ACCEPTED at this event. 

  • Electronics
    • computers, printers, television sets, stereos, cell phones, small appliances like microwaves, etc. 
  • Lightbulbs & Batteries 
  • Household hazardous waste, such as:
    • paint, stains, household cleaners, pesticides, pool/hot tub chemicals, automotive fluids like anti-freeze and motor oil, etc. 
  • Paper to be shredded (on-site)
  • Yard waste and food waste to be composted (must be emptied from plastic bags)
  • Tires (4 tires max per person, available only until the dumpster fills)
  • Styrofoam (two types only):
    • White, clean, rigid furniture, appliance, electronics, etc. packaging
    • White, clean foam coolers
  • Soft Plastics (exemptions apply) 
    • Only some soft plastics are accepted: if you pull it and it stretches a bit, it’s accepted. If you pull it and it rips like paper, it’s a no. Check this flyer out for a clear visual of what is accepted. 
  • Gently Used Outdoor Gear
    • Think stuff you would find at REI (ex. ski's, bikes, clothes, soft goods, hard goods, camping gear, etc.)
  • Scrap Metal

 Items that are NOT accepted include: 

  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Explosives
  • Biomedical waste
  • Sharps
  • Large appliances
  • Any appliance with refrigerant
  • Foam packing peanuts 
  • Any styrofoam cups
  • Any styrofoam food packaging - trays, takeout boxes
  • Some soft plastics
    • If you pull it and it stretches a bit, it’s accepted. If you pull it and it rips like paper, it’s a no. Check the bottom of this flyer out for a list of what is not accepted. 
  • Helmets
  • Climbing Gear

If you are not sure about an item, please call Hunter Koch at 970-479-2338.

May 9th Hard to Recycle Event, Ford Park Parking lot