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Our agency
Learn about the Solid Waste Division’s (SWD) mission, values, service area, and more.
At the Solid Waste Division (SWD), our vision is to achieve Zero Waste of Resources by enhancing the environment through collaboration and innovation. Success to us entails delivering value to our customers and stakeholders while continuously improving waste prevention, resource recovery, and waste disposal.
Our waste transfer system
We operate 8 transfer stations, 2 rural drop boxes, and the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill – the only operational landfill in the county. We also maintain custodial responsibility for 9 closed landfills.
Our solid waste system ensures that unincorporated King County and 37 cities have access to safe, efficient garbage transfer and disposal, and recycling services. We serve all cities in the county except for Seattle and Milton, which are part of separate solid waste systems.
Working towards a more sustainable, equitable future
Almost 70 percent of the stuff sent to the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill each year could have been recycled. A major shift is needed to create a regional solid waste system that’s better for both the environment and our communities. Re+ is King County’s approach to creating a system that prioritizes waste reduction and prevention while centering community needs. Through Re+, we’re reducing climate impacts, conserving resources, and working with our city partners and community members to create a more equitable waste-free King County.
Exploring new technologies for mixed waste processing
In addition to Re+, SWD provides a number of innovative programs and resources that enhance waste prevention and recycling.
Our values
We’re guided by King County’s True North and values, to make King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. These 8 values define the way we act, what’s important to us, and our expectations for ourselves and one another:
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We are one team |
We are racially just |
We solve problems |
We respect all people |
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We focus on the customer |
We lead the way |
We drive for results. |
We are responsible stewards |
Equity, Racial and Social Justice program
In 2010, Executive Dow Constantine signed an ordinance that requires the principles of equity, racial and social justice (ERSJ) to be included in all strategic planning, comprehensive planning and policy decisions at King County. These principles were defined in the King County Equity and Social Justice Strategic Plan.
SWD works to actively apply an equity lens in all our lines of business to advance the goals of the ESRJ Strategic Plan.
Climate action
We’re committed to reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions from our solid waste system. Our work is guided by climate goals outlined in King County’s Strategic Climate Action Plan and the King County-Cities Climate Collaboration agreements.
Staff contacts
View our current Solid Waste Division organization chart.
Find SWD staff contact info using the King County online directory, which is maintained by agency administrative staff.
If you need help connecting with a staff person for a SWD program or service, please contact our customer service at 206-477-4466 or 711 TTY Relay.