This article aims at analyzing urban waste management (MSW) in the municipality of Japeri, Metropolitan Region of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in the light of the National Policy on Solid Waste, created in 2010, identifying obstacles to its implementation. It is a qualitative research conducted between 2015 and 2016. The data collection procedures were: literature review; documentary analysis; interviews with managers; direct observation and use of the focus group technique with community representatives. The study analyzed Japeri MSW management with an innovative and collaborative perspective, using the focus group technique, which emphasized the importance of involving the community in understanding their problems and proved adequate to foster this debate. Among the challenges to be faced by Japeri is: to implement the Municipal Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan (PMGIRS); reduce the dependence of state and federal agencies on management; universal collection of waste; expand the coverage of selective collection; involve society in management, among others. One of the limitations of the study was the poor quality and availability of current data on municipal waste management. The complexity of the topic also did not allow all issues to be addressed in the study. The major contribution of the research was its approach, giving voice to the demands and suggestions of community representatives. For the success of PMGIRS, social participation is essential, in order to prevent its discontinuity or to become a mere political instrument. It is hoped that the focal group technique employed may be adapted to other contexts. Due to the lack of more in-depth studies on the subject, this article may contribute to filling this gap.