Bin Placement Rules: San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do bin placement rules rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
San Jose and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose requires carts to be placed at the curb with lids closed and handles facing the house, at least 3 feet apart from each other and from obstacles such as vehicles, mailboxes, and utility poles. Carts must be placed on the street side of the sidewalk with wheels touching the curb. On streets without curbs, carts should be placed at the edge of the roadway. Carts must not block sidewalks, driveways, or bike lanes.
View full San Jose rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale requires trash, recycling, and organics carts to be stored out of public view between collections and placed with adequate spacing on collection day.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Spacing | 3+ feet apart and from obstacles | - |
| Orientation | Handles facing house, wheels at curb | - |
| Lids | Must be fully closed | - |
| Access | Cannot block sidewalks, driveways, or bike lanes | - |
| Backyard Service | Available for mobility-limited residents (extra fee) | - |
| Storage | - | Out of public view |
| Cart spacing | - | 3 feet apart minimum |
| Curb placement | - | Wheels against curb |
| Obstructions | - | Not near hydrants or mailboxes |
| Enclosure required | - | For multi-family |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
How far apart should I space my trash carts?
Carts must be at least 3 feet apart from each other and from obstacles such as vehicles, mailboxes, and utility poles to allow the automated collection arm to grip each cart.
Can I get backyard trash service in San Jose?
Yes. Residents with mobility limitations may request backyard collection service for an additional monthly fee through the City's waste hauler.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Where should I store my trash cans?
Carts must be stored out of public view such as in a garage, side yard, or behind a fence between collection days.
How far apart should carts be on collection day?
Carts need at least three feet of clearance between each cart and from other obstructions.
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