Recycling Requirements: Downey vs Los Angeles
How do recycling requirements rules compare between Downey, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
California AB 341 mandates recycling for businesses generating 4+ cubic yards weekly and multi-family complexes with 5+ units. Downey residents use the blue bin for cardboard, paper, metal, glass, and plastic.
View full Downey 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 | Downey | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | AB 341 mandatory recycling | - |
| Commercial | 4+ cu yd/week must recycle | AB 341 recycling mandates apply |
| Multi-Family | 5+ units must recycle | Recycling required per LAMC 66.03 |
| Blue Bin | Paper, metal, glass, plastic | - |
| Organics | - | Mandatory under SB 1383 |
| Hauler | - | RecycLA franchise system for 5+ units |
| City Ordinance | - | 187711 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey 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.
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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