Pasadena's recycling drop-off sits at 2800 Pasadena Boulevard, at Preston Avenue. It is run as a partnership between the city and Frontier Waste Solutions rather than by the city alone - a distinction worth knowing, since Frontier also handles the curbside carts across much of Pasadena.

What the site takes is short and specific: newspaper, plastic, glass and aluminum, deposited into the bins provided. This is a self-service bin point rather than a staffed transfer station, and nothing is charged for using it.

No opening times for the drop-off appear anywhere on the city's recycling page, so we are not quoting any. If timing matters to your trip, ring the Sanitation Department on 713-475-7884 before you set off rather than guessing from a third-party listing.

Computers and household hazardous waste are handled a different way entirely. Pasadena does not accept them at the bins. Instead you call the Sanitation Department on that same number and book an appointment for a collection. Turning up with leftover paint or an old monitor will not work.

Two other points residents regularly ask about. Frontier will deliver a free recycling toter to your address if you call (936) 258-9035 or email info@frontierwaste.com. And recyclables must go in loose - Frontier will not take bagged material, because the bags cause contamination at the sorting facility. Bulk household refuse is dealt with through Pasadena's separate municipal collection and dump arrangements, not at this location.