Where I live (California USA), we get curbside recycling but participation is optional and we are charged for the service. It is less expensive to take one's recyclable materials to the recycling center, though it can be inconvenient for people who don't drive.

We have to pay for recycling and the city formerly concealed the recycling tax in our water bills but because of a lawsuit, the fee was moved to the garbage bills where it belongs. I don't mind paying for it but I think the fee should not be hidden in something else and it should be reasonable.