Commercial building waste

Every commercial building or renovation project involves some unneeded items. If you're planning such a project, think about how you can recycle your surplus items.

For building materials that are in good condition or still in the package, consider donating them to Habitat for Humanity's ReStore.

For other used, unwanted or scrap items, businesses can bring them to one of the Cedar Rapids/Linn County Solid Waste Agency's two locations.  Please check our Recycling Guide for specific items, but in general, we accept these building and renovation materials:

• Asphalt shingles - loads must pass inspection for reduced rate.  Fee applies.
• Cardboard - free for Linn County businesses.
• Hazardous waste products - leftover paint, cleaners and more. Fee applies.
• Scrap metal - aluminum/metal siding, aluminum frame windows, chain link fencing, gutters, metal sheds and more. Free for Linn County businesses.
• Wood and wood products - beams, boards, cabinets, trim/moldings and more. Fee applies.

 What do you do with building waste?

• Asphalt shingles - are processed by a contracted firm.Typically, they are ground up and used in roads.
• Cardboard is processed into new paper products.
• Hazardous materials are recycled or safely processed by an external vendor.
• Scrap metal is baled and processed by a contracted firm.
• Wood and wood products are recycled through our Biomass Wood Recovery program.

What is Biomass Wood Recovery?

A biomass wood recovery program diverts waste wood from the landfill, where it makes methane gas, and recycles it into fuel that is used as an alternative to coal and oil. Mixed wood waste is delivered to our biomass/compost facility on A Street SW.

The wood is chipped for fuel, replacing coal at energy plants and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Not only is this better for the environment, but its more economical for businesses because they  save money on hauling fewer loads to the landfill. You'll find it's also cheaper to drop off a load of wood waste for the biomass program than it is a load of regular landfill waste. For a list of acceptable wood products, download our Wood Recovery Flier or check our Recycling Guide for a specific item.

In general,  we accept building materials, building products, landscape debris, shipping materials and unwanted furniture.  We do not accept wood products that have been pressure or "green" treated or contain lead-based paint. It’s not necessary to remove door knobs, hinges, or nails as this material will drop out during processing and be recycled.