Recycling Requirements: El Cerrito vs Pittsburg
How do recycling requirements rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Pittsburg, CA?
Pittsburg has fewer restrictions than El Cerrito.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
SB 1383 mandates organics recycling for all residents and businesses. Contra Costa County requires separation of recyclables (blue cart) and organics including food scraps (green cart) with enforcement beginning 2024.
View full El Cerrito rules →Pittsburg, CA
Contra Costa County
Blue cart recycling in Pittsburg accepts clean paper, cardboard, rigid plastics #1-#5 and #7, aluminum, tin, and glass bottles and jars. Plastic bags, film, polystyrene foam, and food-contaminated items belong in the trash. Recycling participation is required under AB 341 for multifamily and businesses.
View full Pittsburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Pittsburg |
|---|---|---|
| State law | SB 1383 (2016) | - |
| Organics cart | Green - required | - |
| Diversion goal | 75% by 2025 | - |
| Contamination fine | Up to $500 | - |
| Business threshold | 2 cubic yards/week | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
Do I have to put food scraps in the green cart?
Yes. SB 1383 requires all residents to separate food waste, including meat and dairy, into the organics cart.
What plastics are recyclable?
Clean, rigid plastic containers marked #1, #2, and #5. Plastic bags, film, and Styrofoam are not recyclable curbside.
Pittsburg FAQ
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