Recycling Centers in Montana: 80 Locations

Recycling in Montana

Montana has 80 recycling centers spread across 26 cities, ranging from urban drop-off facilities and scrap yards in the Missoula and Billings valleys to rural transfer stations in smaller communities. Recycling policy is overseen by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), specifically the Tanks, Waste & Recycling section within the Waste Management & Remediation Division. DEQ's Recycling program provides resource information and technical assistance for waste reduction and recycling, pollution prevention, and sustainability. The state operates under the Montana Integrated Waste Management Act, which requires DEQ to implement an Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan (IWMP). Montana does not have a bottle-deposit law and has no statewide e-waste mandate, though DEQ licenses HHW/e-waste collection events held by local sponsors.

DEQ notes that Montana recycles about 19 percent of the waste generated statewide — a figure that reflects the challenge of low population density and large distances that make material markets difficult to sustain economically. The largest concentrations of recycling centers are in the university city of Missoula (14 centers), Billings (13), and the growing Gallatin Valley city of Bozeman (10). Regional hubs include Great Falls (6), Helena (6), and Kalispell (5). Smaller communities such as Polson and Livingston each list 2 centers.

Most Montana residents recycle through municipal drop-off sites, county transfer stations, or private recycling facilities licensed by the DEQ Solid Waste Program. DEQ guidance covers disposal of appliances with freon, safe needle disposal, thermostat recycling, used paint, and composting. Used oil is regulated separately: Montana has adopted federal 40 CFR Part 279 standards (ARM 17.53.14), and a network of used oil collectors operates statewide. Organizations wishing to host a Household Hazardous Waste or e-waste collection event must obtain a DEQ license at least 30 days before the event. Neighboring state pages: Idaho, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota.

Top Cities by Number of Centers

Missoula 14 Billings 13 Bozeman 10 Great Falls 6 Helena 6 Kalispell 5 Belgrade 2 East Helena 2

All Cities in Montana

Baker 1 center Belgrade 2 centers Billings 13 centers Black Eagle 1 center Bozeman 10 centers Bridger 1 center Butte 1 center Columbia Falls 1 center East Helena 2 centers Floweree 1 center Glendive 1 center Great Falls 6 centers Helena 6 centers Kalispell 5 centers Lewistown 1 center Livingston 2 centers Miles City 1 center Missoula 14 centers Plentywood 1 center Polson 2 centers Red Lodge 1 center Sidney 2 centers Three Forks 1 center Victor 2 centers West Yellowstone 1 center Whitefish 1 center

Recycling in Montana — FAQ

Does Montana have a bottle deposit law?

No. Montana does not have a bottle bill or container-deposit law. Beverage containers are handled through municipal drop-off programs and private recycling facilities rather than a statewide deposit-refund system.

What state agency oversees recycling in Montana?

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), through its Tanks, Waste & Recycling section, administers the state recycling program. DEQ provides technical assistance, implements the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan, and licenses solid waste and recycling facilities, including HHW/e-waste collection events.

What is Montana's recycling rate?

DEQ's recycling program page states that Montanans currently recycle about 19 percent of the waste generated statewide. The agency notes that low population density and long distances create economic and logistical barriers to expanding that rate.

How do I recycle electronics or hazardous waste in Montana?

Montana has no statewide e-waste mandate. However, DEQ licenses local HHW and e-waste collection events throughout the year. Check with your county, city, or the DEQ recycling resources page for upcoming events in your area. DEQ also maintains lists of used oil collectors and lamp recyclers across the state.