Yard Waste Collection: El Monte vs Los Angeles
How do yard waste collection rules compare between El Monte, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
El Monte and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
Yard waste in El Monte must be source-separated into the green organics cart along with food scraps under Ordinance #3006 (Chapter 8.21). Bundled tree branches that don't fit in the cart can be taken under the bulky-item program (up to 20 free pickups per year).
View full El Monte rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles collects yard waste weekly in the green organics bin alongside food scraps under California SB 1383. Branches under 4 feet long and 4 inches diameter go loose in the green bin. Christmas trees are collected curbside the first two weeks of January.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Yard waste cart | Green (organics) cart only | - |
| Combined with food scraps? | Yes – single-stream organics | - |
| Plastic bags allowed? | No – compostable bags only | - |
| Oversized branches | Bundle and schedule bulky pickup | - |
| Backyard burning of yard waste | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) | - |
| Backyard composting | Allowed | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Can I bag my grass clippings in a black plastic bag for the green cart?
No. Plastic bags contaminate the organics stream. Empty the clippings loose into the green cart, or use a certified compostable bag (BPI-certified).
My tree branches are too long for the cart — what do I do?
Tie them in bundles no longer than ~4 feet and schedule a free bulky-item pickup with Valley Vista (800-442-6454). Bundled branches are an accepted bulky item and use 1 of your 20 annual pickups.
Can I burn dry leaves in my backyard?
No. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited in the South Coast Air Basin under SCAQMD Rule 444. Use the green organics cart or backyard composting instead.
Los Angeles FAQ
What day is my green bin picked up?
Your green bin is collected on the same day as your black trash bin every week. Look up your service day at lacitysan.org or by calling 311.
Can I put branches in the green bin?
Yes, branches up to 4 feet long and 4 inches diameter can go loose in the green bin. Larger limbs require a free bulky-item pickup.
Do leaves go in a separate bag?
No. Loose leaves go directly in the green bin alongside grass clippings and food scraps. Plastic or paper bags are not allowed inside the bin.
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