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Trash & Recycling in Pasadena, CA (2026)

4 verified trash & recycling rules for Pasadena, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Pickup Rules & Schedules

Pasadena provides curbside trash, recycling, and green waste collection through the Public Works Department. SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion. Collection schedules vary by neighborhood.

Pasadena Trash Pickup Schedules & Rules

Some Restrictions

California SB 1383 (2016) — Health and Safety Code Section 39730.6 and Public Resources Code Section 42652.5 (Organic Waste Reduction Targets)

39730.6. (a) Consistent with Section 39730.5, methane emissions reduction goals shall include the following targets to reduce the landfill disposal of organics: (1) A 50-percent reduction in the level of the statewide disposal of organic waste from the 2014 level by 2020. (2) A 75-percent reduction in the level of the statewide disposal of organic waste from the 2014 level by 2025. 42652.5. (a)...

Bin Placement Rules

Trash and recycling bins in Pasadena must be stored out of public view and placed for collection on scheduled days. Bins must be retrieved promptly after pickup. Code Compliance enforces violations.

Pasadena Trash Bin Placement Rules

Some Restrictions

Bulk Item Disposal

Pasadena provides bulk item pickup service for residents. Large items and appliances can be scheduled for curbside collection through the Public Works Department. Illegal dumping is subject to fines.

Pasadena Bulk Item Disposal & Pickup

Some Restrictions

Recycling Requirements

Pasadena mandates recycling under state law (AB 939, SB 1383). Residents must separate recyclables. Commercial businesses must comply with SB 1383 organic waste diversion. The city has a goal of zero waste.

Pasadena Mandatory Recycling Requirements

Some Restrictions

California SB 1383 (2016) Implementation — Statewide Organic Waste Recycling and Edible Food Recovery Requirements

California's Organic Waste Reduction — SB 1383 Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy: To reduce methane pollution and other short-lived climate pollutants, California passed SB 1383 (Lara, 2016). The law set targets for 2025: 75% less organic waste sent to landfills. 20% of unsold, still-edible food sent to food recovery organizations. Collections: All jurisdictions need to provide o...

Looking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Pasadena city rules.

Trash & Recycling in Los Angeles County