What is the Policy on Recycling Lids in Bedford?

Every week we set out to answer a question submitted by one of our readers as part of our You Ask...Patch Answers feature. 

This week we had a local resident write in with a question about the Bedford recycling policy, and whether or not residents can throw the lids from cans and jars into their recycling bins. 

They asked: The "official" Bedford notice on recycling says NOT to recycle "lids." But nobody seems to know what that means. Does this mean no lids of any kind under ANY circumstances?  (My husband suspects they only recycle larger items -- maybe lids get caught in their sorting machinery or something?). Do they mean no metal jar lids? What about plastic lids that are clearly marked with the recycling logo? 

According to the Department of Public Works, this reader's husband was spot on.

The Bedford recycling policy prohibits the recycling of lids from cans or jars because the lids are so small they could jam the processing machinery as materials are recycled. 

Whether the lid is metal or plastic, even if the lid has a recycle symbol on the underside of it, it should not be recycled, per the town policy. 

Do you have any questions regarding life in Bedford? Send them to christopher.gambon@patch.com and we'll include them in next week's installment of You Ask, Patch Answers.