Recycling Requirements: Altadena vs Los Angeles
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Altadena, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
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 →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
California SB 1383 and City Ordinance 187711 mandate organics recycling for all properties. Single-family homes use the three-cart system from LASAN. Properties with 5+ units must provide recycling under LAMC 66.03 through RecycLA franchised haulers. Contamination of recycling bins can result in service warnings. Commercial generators must also comply with AB 341 recycling mandates.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | RecycLA franchise system for 5+ units |
| Organics | - | Mandatory under SB 1383 |
| Multi-Family | - | Recycling required per LAMC 66.03 |
| Commercial | - | AB 341 recycling mandates apply |
| City Ordinance | - | 187711 |
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.
Los Angeles 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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