Virginia law requires recycling.

The Virginia General Assembly recognizes the need for and the benefits of recycling as part of an integrated solid waste management system.  In 1989, Virginia legislators mandated the development of solid waste management plans to achieve a minimum twenty-five (25) percent recycling rate by 1995.  Localities implemented efficient recycling programs to reach the minimum twenty-five percent rate, which remains a mandate of the Commonwealth.  Mandatory recycling rate info

For more information about the status of recycling in Virginia, please visit the website of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.