San Jose requires that trash, recycling, and organics carts be stored out of public view when not set out for collection. Under SJMC Chapter 9.10 and the City's solid waste collection regulations, carts may be placed at the curb no earlier than 5:00 PM the day before collection and must be retrieved by midnight on collection day. Carts must be stored behind the front building line, in a garage, or screened from public view.
San Jose uses a three-cart system (garbage, recycling, and organics) provided by the City's contracted waste hauler. Overflowing carts, carts left at the curb beyond the allowed timeframe, and carts stored in front yards are subject to code enforcement action. The City's Anti-Litter Ordinance (SJMC §9.10.1650) also addresses scattered trash and debris around collection areas.
Violations of cart storage requirements can result in courtesy notices followed by administrative citations. Repeat offenders may face fines starting at $100 and increasing for subsequent violations.
San Jose, CA
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