Recycling Requirements: Altadena vs Burbank
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Altadena, CA and Burbank, CA?
Altadena and Burbank have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
California SB 1383 requires all residents and businesses in Altadena to separate organic waste (food scraps + yard trimmings) from trash. LA County Code Chapter 20.87 implements at the county level via Athens Services' three-bin program.
View full Altadena rules →Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Mandatory recycling and organics separation required under SB 1383. Blue bin for recyclables, green bin for organics/yard waste. Commercial businesses must also comply. Athens Services handles commercial waste. New requirements phased in since 2022.
View full Burbank rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Burbank |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | SB 1383 (organics) + AB 341/1826 (recycling) | SB 1383 mandatory organics |
| LA County Code | Ch. 20.87 | - |
| Bins | Black/Blue/Green 3-bin system | - |
| Hauler | Athens Services | - |
| Residential | - | 3-bin system required |
| Commercial | - | Athens Services handles |
| Compliance | - | Required since 2022 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I have to compost in Altadena?
You must put food scraps and yard waste in the green organics bin — California SB 1383 and LA County Code Ch. 20.87 require it. You can also home compost as an alternative.
Burbank FAQ
What can I recycle curbside?
Paper, cardboard, glass bottles, aluminum cans, and plastics #1-#5. No plastic bags or food-soiled items.
What if my recycling bin is skipped?
Likely contaminated. Remove non-recyclables and set out on next collection day.
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