Background & objectives: Recovering waste component is one of the USEPA integrated waste management strategies in order to reduce the quantity of waste generation. Since recycling process is not performed in Ardabil city, this study aimed to evaluate the recovery potential of Ardabil municipal wastes in 2014. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, initial data (classification of production sources, identification and classification of waste components) were obtained from different sources (library information, observation, and checklist), and completed by the given guidelines and the calculations. Weight percentage of waste ingredients was determined using ASTM recommendation (56 sample- 100kg) for 4 seasons and the moisture content and heat value were determined by the computational and laboratory methods. Data were analyzed with SPSS software and compared with the results of other studies and guidelines. Results: The production rate of Ardabil municipal wastes was estimated as 312-350 ton/day. Food and garden wastes had the highest weight percentage equal to 59.27% with the moisture content of 65.83% and non-ferrous metals had the lowest percentage equal to 0. 1% with the moisture content of 8.76%. The weight percentages of other organic, inorganic, hazardous and special components were different. The heat value of 7810 kj/kg was estimated for Ardabil municipal wastes (wet weight). Conclusion: Ardabil municipal wastes have a high potential (97.3%) for recovery and can be divided into usable components in composting, energy production, conversion industries, and landfilling.