RESOURCES
We are always happy to help by providing recycling resources at Green Guy Recycling. We know you may have questions regarding material and the proper ways to recycle it. Please review our FAQs below, and give us a call if your question is not answered here. We’ve also included some important links to regulatory websites and forms to help you stay compliant while selling metal.
metal sale requirements
Some metal sales are subject to regulations set forth by the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Texas Metals Program. Customers must produce a valid ID card to proceed with the sale of regulated materials. Green Guy will help you create the required Texas Cash Transaction Card, and pay you immediately for your metal, but first-time customers may be required to receive payment in a check. If you are a commercial customer please inquire with us about potential exemptions. See the links below to learn more about the Texas Metals Program, the types of ID cards accepted, and the list of regulated materials.
acceptable forms of id
DPS Driver’s License
DPS Identification Card
DPS Concealed Handgun License
Military Identification Card
No other forms of identification are accepted.
Regulated Materials
The following materials require a valid ID and Cash Transaction Card:
Aluminum (except Aluminum Cans)
Copper
Brass
Lead
materials requiring additional documentation
The following materials may require additional documentation as well as a valid ID and Cash Transaction Card. Please call for additional information.
- Backflow valves
- Beer kegs
- Burnt insulated wire
- Catalytic converters
- Central heating and A/C condensing or evaporating cores
- Communication, transmission, & service wire or cable
- Drain gates
- Fire hydrants
- Forklift propane tanks
- Government, cemetery, or railroad property
- Guard rails
- Historical markers & cemetery vases, receptacles or memorials
- Manhole covers
- Metal bleachers
- Metal cylinders
- Metal railroad equipment
- Processed recycling metals
- Safes
- Unused rebar
- Utility structures
Boat recycling requirements
Many boats are made of metal, and can be purchased by Green Guy Recycling. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) requires that the boat title must be surrendered to GGR in order for us to accept the boat. Boats without motors that are less than 14 feet in length, as well as kayaks and canoes without motors, are exempt from this requirement. To check the title status of your boat, please have the TX number available and contact us.
Central a/c unit recycling
The Texas DPS further regulates selling central A/C units. The seller of this material must present one of the following:
• A valid HVAC Technician or Contractor License issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
• A sales receipt from either the scrap A/C unit or for one that replaced it.
Vehicle recycling requirements
The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Texas DPS require that metal recycling companies only purchase a junked vehicle if the seller presents a title with the vehicle. The title must be clear of any liens and needs to be signed on the back by the owner. If you do not have a title, we can help you get the proper paperwork to legally sell your vehicle. If the title was transferred into your name, but was lost, you need to apply for a Certified Copy of the Title. If the vehicle was not transferred into your name, you need to apply for an Application for Authority to Dispose of a Motor Vehicle to a Demolisher.
Click here if a vehicle title was transferred into your name, but was lost.
Click here if a vehicle was not transferred into your name.
Make More Money
Learn MoreFrequently asked questions
General & Metal Recycling
What materials does Green Guy accept?
We accept most household recyclables and all metals. Check out What We Accept for more information.
Do I need to sort my household recyclables?
Yes! We have containers for each type of material in our 24 hour drop off center. Please separate material prior to drop off. All containers are clearly labeled in order to help you recycle properly.
What does Green Guy purchase?
We purchase all metals, please see our What We Buy page.
Can I donate my metal without payment?
Of course! Metal can be donated 24/7 in our drop off center. If you’d like help unloading, please come see us during our hours of operation.
Does Green Guy charge a fee for any items?
Unfortunately, some items do incur a cost to recycle properly. These items include tires, TVs and monitors, mattresses and box springs, oil filters, and freon bearing appliances. These items may only be accepted during our hours of operation. To learn more about these fees, and potential exemption for certain San Marcos residents, see our Bulk Items and Fees.
Do I have to pay a Freon fee if I don’t want payment for the appliance?
No! You are welcome to donate your freon bearing appliances 24/7 at no charge. We only collect fees on appliances we purchase.
Will someone help me unload my metal?
Yes! We have a wide variety of machines and equipment, paired with a friendly and professional staff to help get you unloaded and on your way quickly. We are not responsible for damage to vehicles or trailers.
How can I get current pricing on metals?
Pricing for certain materials changes frequently, sometimes multiple times per day. Please call us for the most current pricing at 512-353-3266.
Does Green Guy pick up any material?
We do! Our diverse fleet of vehicles and equipment is here to help get your material where it needs to go. Visit our Commercial Pages for more information on our roll-off hauling or other truck and trailer services.
Does Green Guy sell metal?
Yes! We strive to divert as much material as possible towards our Resale shop. Check out our Resale page to learn more.
What kind of documentation do I need to sell metal?
There may be a number of IDs or documents required to complete a lawful sale. Please see our Resources page for more information about the Texas DPS Metal Sale Requirements.
How do I increase the value of my metal?
Keep your different types of metals separated and organized. For a few ideas on how to sort, visit our Make More Money page.
What are Green Guy's business hours?
Our drop off center for household recyclable items is open 24/7. Our office, metals purchasing, and resale is open Monday – Friday from 8am to 5pm, and Saturday 8am to 12pm.
Where is Green Guy Recycling located?
We are located on the East side of I-35, off of Texas Hwy 80, directly behind Tractor Supply Co. and Hobby Lobby, in San Marcos, Texas. North and Southbound I-35 traffic should take Exit 205. For maps and more information on our second facility, please visit our Location page. Be sure to check out our facility map to help you navigate within the recycling center!
we’ve got answers to every question
Paper Shredding & Recycling
Is Green Guy HIPAA compliant?
Compass exceeds the shredding requirements of HIPAA, FACTA, GLBA and ITEP.
What is a "Certificate of Destruction"?
“Certificate of Destruction” is a legal document prepared by Green Guy which states that all documents handled by Green Guy on that given pick-up or date have been destroyed.
Is the shredded paper recycled?
Yes, every piece.
In addition to paper, what else do you shred?
Green Guy does the following: paper shredding, VHS tape shredding, CD shredding, DVD shredding, credit card shredding and photograph shredding. Please contact us regarding any questionable items.
Is there a minimum amount of paper required for shredding?
No, we will design a program to meet your needs: weekly, monthly, quarterly, or on-call.
Is there a maximum amount of paper that you can handle?
No, our document shredding system can handle over 3.5 million pounds per month.
Do you pick up file boxes?
Yes, we have call-in pick-up service at any time.
Do staples, paper clips or rubber bands need to be removed?
No, there’s no need to remove these items.
What is your fee for shredding?
There are several variables that determine a final shred fee. Please contact us for more information.
How many containers will compass provide?
We can provide any combination of lockable carts and consoles to suit your needs and requested service frequency. We can always adjust the quantities or pick up frequency to meet your needs.
where do we position the containers on the scheduled pick-up day?
No need to do anything! Green Guy personnel will retrieve carts and empty consoles.
Do you pick up cardboard?
Yes! Please contact our team for more information.
what do your containers look like?
Our collection carts are new and in excellent condition.
Why should I rent instead of purchase my equipment?
Renting requires very little up-front costs. There are usually tax benefits associated with renting. All equipment maintenance is covered under Green Guy’s rental program.
How is insurance and liability insurance handled?
Green Guy requires a “Certificate of Insurance” from the customer listing Green Guy as additionally insured on their liability policy and the value of the equipment covered on their property insurance.
