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Solid Waste Events & Outreach

Residential Solid Waste Program Links

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The City of Bloomington is partnering with Hennepin County to promote the Save Food, Spend Less Challenge, a four-week challenge designed to help residents build practical skills in meal planning, shopping, cooking, and food storage while saving time, money, and resources. The challenge runs October 1-31. Registration is now open at blm.mn/savefood.

Residents who sign up and participate will also be entered into a chance drawing for a $25 certificate to the Bloomington Farmers Market. The City is also planning a related event during the challenge month. More details will be shared soon.

Sep

26

Citywide annual recycling drop-off event

Saturday, September 26, 2026 - 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

The event is open to all Bloomington residents. Certain items will be accepted at no cost, and other items a fee will apply.

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Sep

27

Naturalist Program: Organic Recycling - Close the Loop

Sunday, September 27, 2026 - 9:30–11:30 a.m.

Learn about easy organics recycling techniques and options on September 27, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Running Park.

Sep

27

Naturalist Program: Organic Recycling - Close the Loop

Sunday, September 27, 2026 - 9:30–11:30 a.m.

Learn about easy organics recycling techniques and options on September 27, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Running Park.

Oct

17

Solid Waste at Bloomington Farmer's Market

Saturday, October 17, 2026 - 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Solid Waste staff will have a booth at the Bloomington Farmer's Market on this date. Stop by to learn more about recycling and waste reduction best practices, ask questions, and pick up a free organics recycling kitchen pail.

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Recurring Solid Waste events

Compost Giveaway: Every spring, the City offers bagged compost to organics recycling participants. The compost is provided through a Hennepin County grant, and celebrates the final product of residents' efforts to compost their food waste and scraps. Learn more at blm.mn/compost.
Citywide Recycling Drop-Off: This event takes place every fall, typically on a Saturday in September. Open to all Bloomington residents, the drop-off helps recycle bulky items and certain items that can't go in regular recycling, such as paper for shredding, electronics, appliances, scrap metal, tires, mattresses, and bicycles. Learn more at blm.mn/bulkies.
Swaps: Community swap events are organized by Bloomington Solid Waste staff to supplement the Bulky Item Management Program. These events allow bulky items to continue being used, bring together residents, and make costly items more accessible to swap participants. Swaps are always free, and items are given and taken freely and at no cost. Any upcoming swaps are highlighted above. The City has held the following swaps in recent years:
- Baby Gear Swap (2023, 2024, 2025)
- Winter Gear Swap (February 2025)
- Garden Tool Swap (2022)
We plan to hold more swaps in the future and try new swap categories to reduce waste in new ways. Contact Solid Waste Staff at 952-563-4660 or cpardubsky@bloomingtonmn.gov to weigh in on what items we should swap next!

Solid Waste in the community

City Solid Waste staff often attend community events to answer questions, share resources, and help you recycle right. Visit our table to pick up a free organics recycling kitchen pail while supplies last.

Solid Waste staff typically attend these community events:

Bloomington Farmers Market (not in attendance at all dates)
Midweek Market (not in attendance at all dates)
Bloomington Home Fair
Public Works Open House
Bloomington Pride
Juneteenth Celebration

Events are always being added above. Check back soon!

Want us to attend your event? Solid Waste staff are available on a first come, first served basis. Staff frequent events and community spaces in the spring and summer, but are available year-round.

Contact Information

Solid Waste Sustainability Specialist

952-563-4660

Email staff