Event Recycling and Composting
On This Page:
Reserve Event Containers
Waste Management Plan for Public Events
Tips for Planning a Green Event
Reserve Event Containers Waste Management Plan Resource Guide
Reserve Event Containers
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 one week in advance to be sure we can guarantee your reservation!
Disposal
Event organizers are responsible for proper disposal of their materials. Recycling can be dropped off at St. Paul's free drop-off site, located at 309 Como Ave S.
Organic material includes all food scraps, non-plastic lined paper plates and bowls, and BPI Certified compostable cutlery and cups. Organics can be dropped off for free at:
District Council Lending Programs
The following District Councils also have recycling and organics containers they lend to neighbors. Not sure which district you live in? View the District Council map.
| D1 Community Council | 2105 ½ Old Hudson Rd | 651-578-7600 |
| D2 Community Council | 1365 Prosperity Ave. | 651-774-2220 |
| West Side Community Organization | 1 Water St. #260 | 651-293-1708 |
| Payne Phalen D5 Planning Council | 506 Kenny Rd. | 651-774-5234 |
| District 6 Planning Council | 171 Front Ave. | 651-488-4485 |
| Summit-University Planning Council | 909 Selby Ave | 651-228-1855 |
| D10 Como Community Council | 1224 Lexington Pkwy N | 651-644-3889 |
| Union Park District Council | 161 N Snelling Ave. | 651-645-6887 |
| Macalester-Groveland Community Council | 320 S. Griggs St. | 651-695-4000 |
| Summit Hill Association | 860 St. Clair Ave. | 651-222-1222 |
| D17 Capitol River Council | 101 E. 5th St # 240 | 651-221-0488 |
Ramsey County Lending Program
Reserve event containers from Ramsey County Environmental Health on their website.
Ramsey County Public Health, Environmental Health Office
Third Floor, Reception Area
2785 White Bear Avenue #350, Maplewood, MN 55109
Waste Management Plans for Public Events
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:
- Waste Management Plan - Submit at least 60 days before the event
- Final Evaluation - Submit within 30 days after the event.
Check out our Resource Guide to help you plan your recycling, organics and trash at large and small events.
Resource Guide Waste Management Plan Final Evaluation
Tips for Planning a Green Event
Recycling and Composting At Home
Plan ahead and you can reduce waste, which means less to deal with after your get-together. Download tips on holding Green Gatherings or a Green Graduation party.
Download free signs or design your own on the Rethink Recycling website. Sings in Hmong, Somali or Spanish can be found at the BizRecycling website.
Recycling and Composting Away From Home
When you call or email a facility about reservations ask the staff about options for recycling and composing. Most businesses have to provide recycling to their customers by January 1, 2016 at the latest. After you arrive locate the disposal containers and let your guests know where to put material for recycling, composting and trash. Visit the Park Facilities Rental page to reserve a public location for your event.