OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Ocala residents will soon see changes to the city’s recycling services as curbside recycling collection transitions to a citywide drop-off program beginning July 6, 2026.
The change was approved by the Ocala City Council in February and is part of an effort to reduce rising operational costs while limiting increases to residential sanitation rates. City officials said eliminating curbside recycling will help offset costs that would otherwise add nearly $5 per month to residents’ sanitation bills.
According to the City of Ocala, the curbside program has faced ongoing contamination issues caused by non-recyclable items being placed in recycling carts. Officials said contaminated loads increase processing costs, reduce efficiency and make the program more difficult to sustain.
Under the new system, residents will still be able to recycle by using one of eight community drop-off locations across the city, including Mary Sue Rich Community Center, Croskey Center/Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex, Ocala Regional Sportsplex, Polly Palmer Park, West of Fire Station No. 5 off NE 24th St., NE Eighth Avenue and NE 14th St., Jervey Gantt Park and SE 31st St. and SE Fifth Terrace.
Residents currently using curbside recycling do not need to take immediate action. Beginning July 6, existing recycling carts will automatically be converted to garbage carts unless residents request that the cart be removed.
City code allows up to two garbage carts per household. Residents who already have two garbage carts and a recycling cart will have the recycling cart removed automatically.
The city said the transition is intended to preserve recycling opportunities while balancing long-term financial sustainability and service delivery.
Residents with questions about the change can contact the City of Ocala Sanitation Division at 352-351-6697.