Bicycles
A working (or repairable) bicycle should be donated, not recycled, most thrift stores, bike co-ops, and Goodwill locations take them. Some municipal drop-off centers host an on-site Goodwill donation partnership that explicitly accepts bicycles for a tax receipt. Only a bike that's truly beyond repair belongs at a scrap metal recycler instead.
Curbside recycling?
No
Not accepted in curbside recycling or regular trash pickup in most cities, donate a working bike or bring a non-working one to a scrap metal recycler.
How to prepare it
- If it's rideable or fixable, donate it to a local bike co-op, thrift store, or a drop-off center's Goodwill donation partnership rather than recycling it
- If truly beyond repair, remove tires and any rubber/plastic parts if possible, most scrap metal recyclers only want the metal frame
- Check with your local solid waste agency for city-specific bike donation or recycling options, per the EPA
Common fees
Free to donate. Scrap metal recyclers typically pay a small amount by weight rather than charging a fee.
Quantity limits
Not confirmed
Residency restrictions
Not confirmed
Appointment required?
Not confirmed
Recycling locations
Showing locations in our covered metros. Choose a metro to see only the locations there.
0 locations in covered metros
No listed locations for this item yet
Try another covered metro, check the take-back programs above, or use the city’s official recycling program while we expand verified coverage.
Related items
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I recycle bicycles?
- A working (or repairable) bicycle should be donated, not recycled, most thrift stores, bike co-ops, and Goodwill locations take them. Some municipal drop-off centers host an on-site Goodwill donation partnership that explicitly accepts bicycles for a tax receipt. Only a bike that's truly beyond repair belongs at a scrap metal recycler instead.
- Can bicycles go in curbside recycling?
- Not accepted in curbside recycling or regular trash pickup in most cities, donate a working bike or bring a non-working one to a scrap metal recycler.
Sources
Programs, hours, fees, eligibility, and accepted materials can change. Confirm details with the facility before traveling.
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