Event Recycling and Waste Management
Whether hosting a public or private event, managing waste is an important step on the planning to-do list! Use this page as a guide to reduce stress and confusion while reducing waste and contributing to a greener Saint Paul.
- Beverage containers (aluminum cans, plastic and/or glass bottles)
- Paper (flyers, signs, posters, pizza delivery boxes)
- Cardboard
- Metal (steel food cans, clean tinfoil/trays)
- Plastic (cups, containers)
- Food scraps (vegetable scraps, bones, dairy products, etc.)
- Non-recyclable paper (paper towels, napkins, paper egg cartons, etc.)
- BPI-certified compostable dishware (BPI website)
- Non-recyclable containers (styrofoam, plastics bags, black plastic, etc.)
- Non-compostable paper (plastic-coated disposable food dishes, etc.)
- Bulky items (couches, mattresses, containers larger than 3 gallons)
- Waste Management Plan - Submit at least 60 days before the event
- Final Evaluation - Submit within 30 days after the event.
City of Saint Paul Container Lending Program
Planning a low-waste event? You can reserve free recycling and organics recycling containers, signs, and bags to help reduce waste. Make sure the bins are conveniently located next to trash containers, near food and eating areas, entrances and exit points, and other high pedestrian traffic areas.
Request containers at least two week sin advance to be sure we can fulfill your request!
Saint Paul District Council Container Lending Programs
The following District Councils have recycling and organics (food scraps) containers available to borrow for events.
Not sure which district you live in? View the District Council map.
| D1 Community Council | 2105 ½ Old Hudson Rd | 651-578-7600 |
| Greater East Side St. Paul | 1365 Prosperity Ave. | 651-774-2220 |
| Payne Phalen D5 Planning Council | 506 Kenny Rd. | 651-774-5234 |
| District 6 Planning Council | 171 Front Ave. | 651-488-4485 |
| West 7th / Fort Road Federation | 882 W 7th St. - Ste. 6 | 651-298-5599 |
| D10 Como Community Council | 1224 Lexington Pkwy N | 651-644-3889 |
| Union Park District Council | 161 N Snelling Ave. | 651-645-6887 |
| Saint Anthony Park Community Council | 2395 University Ave W | 651- 649-5992 |
| Hamline Midway Coalition | 1558 W. Minnehaha Ave. | 651-494-7682 |
| Macalester-Groveland Community Council | 320 S. Griggs St. | 651-695-4000 |
| Highland District Council | 1978 Ford Parkway | 651- 695-4005 |
Ramsey County Container Lending Program
Ramsey County Environmental Health has recycling and organics (food scraps) containers available to borrow for events.
Recycling Containers for Events
Ramsey County Public Health, Environmental Health Office
Third Floor, Reception Area
2785 White Bear Avenue #350, Maplewood, MN 55109
Event organizers are responsible for proper disposal of trash, recycling, and organics (food scraps) generated at their events.
Recycling
These items can all be recycled for free by taking them to Saint Paul's free drop-off site at 309 Como Avenue.
Organic (food scraps)
These items can be composted for free by taking them to one of the drop-off sites below.
District 10 Como Park site Ramsey County Yard Waste Sites Macalester-Groveland Drop-off Site
Trash
Search the Ramsey County disposal guide to find out where to take these items.
In 2014, Saint Paul City Council updated city ordinance Chapter 366 to maximize waste diversion goals. Saint Paul is committed to protecting the environment and public health, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and conserving energy and natural resources. Community events, parades, races, and public gatherings play a vital role in accomplishing these goals. The Waste Management Plan intends to aid event organizers in planning and reducing the waste generated at public events.
Event organizers are required to submit the following for review by Public Works staff:
Check out our Resource Guide to help you plan your recycling, organics and trash at large and small events.
Reduce Waste and Manage it Properly
By planning ahead you can reduce waste at your next event! Recycling and composting help reduce greenhouse gases by reducing the amount of materials sent to landfills. Check out these resources for tips on managing your waste to create an eco-friendly event.
Green Gatherings Green Graduation Party Guest-imator
Working with Venues
When you contact a facility about reservations, ask them what recycling and composing options are available on-site. Most businesses are required by law to provide recycling for customers.
When you arrive to set up your event, locate the disposal containers and make sure they're labeled properly. If needed, you can download free labels from BizRecycling. Some signs and stickers are also available in languages other than English.
Visit the Park Facilities Rental page to reserve a public location for your event.
