Recycling Requirements: Altadena vs Long Beach
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Altadena, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
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 →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach mandates recycling under LBMC §8.60.370 (effective Jan 2022) and SB 1383. All accounts are auto-enrolled in organics and recycling. Tenants and employees must be educated on requirements. Inspections ensure compliance.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | SB 1383 (organics) + AB 341/1826 (recycling) | - |
| LA County Code | Ch. 20.87 | - |
| Bins | Black/Blue/Green 3-bin system | - |
| Hauler | Athens Services | - |
| Mandatory | - | All accounts enrolled |
| SB 1383 | - | Organics diversion required |
| Education | - | Required for tenants/employees |
| Effective | - | January 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.
Long Beach 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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