Trash & Recycling in Cupertino, CA (2026)
5 verified trash & recycling rules for Cupertino, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pickup Rules & Schedules
Recology South Bay is Cupertino's exclusive franchised hauler, and Municipal Code 6.24.030 requires every occupied residential and nonresidential property to subscribe to and pay for garbage collection. Weekly collection of garbage, recycling, and organics is mandatory, with service starting within ten days of occupancy.
Cupertino Trash and Recycling Pickup Rules
Some RestrictionsBin Placement Rules
Cupertino Municipal Code 6.24.070 sets when and how carts are placed for collection: at the curb no more than 24 hours before pickup and removed within 24 hours after. Lids must be fully closed, and Recology asks for 24 inches of clearance between carts for automated collection.
Cupertino Cart Placement and Set-Out Rules
Some RestrictionsBulk Item Disposal
Recology South Bay gives each Cupertino household two free on-call bulky-item collections per year for furniture, appliances, and similar large items. Pickups must be scheduled in advance, with a limit of three bulky items per collection and weight and material restrictions.
Cupertino Bulky Item Disposal Rules
Few RestrictionsRecycling Requirements
California SB 1383 requires all Cupertino residents and businesses to divert organic waste, including food scraps, yard trimmings, and food-soiled paper, from the landfill. The City implements this through Recology's three-cart system, and Municipal Code 6.24.030 requires subscription to collection service that captures recyclables and compostables.
Cupertino Recycling and Organics Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsIllegal Dumping
Cupertino Municipal Code 9.18.215 makes it unlawful to deposit litter on any public street, waterway, or occupied or vacant private property, mirroring California Penal Code 374.4. Dumping refuse or garbage on streets and public places is also barred by CMC 6.24.110.
Cupertino Illegal Dumping and Litter Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Cupertino city rules.
Trash & Recycling in Santa Clara County →