San Mateo County, CA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Earliest set-out
- 24 hours before pickup day
- Must be stored again
- Within 24 hours of collection
- Governing sections
- Ordinance Code §§ 4.04.110, 4.04.120
- Scope
- Unincorporated county only
Summary
Unincorporated San Mateo County residents may set carts out no more than 24 hours before pickup and must store them out of sight within 24 hours after the hauler empties them.
All carts, bins and receptacles shall be placed on the premises at ground level... All carts, bins and receptacles placed for collection by a Solid waste Hauler must be placed for collection not more than twenty-four (24) hours preceding the Weekly Collection Service day. Following removal of the Solid Waste and recyclable materials, all carts, bins and receptacles must be stored within twenty-four (24) hours in a less conspicuous area of the premises so as not to create a nuisance to the occupants of neighboring premises.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 47).
Full Breakdown
Ordinance Code § 4.04.110 requires all carts, bins and receptacles to sit on the premises at ground level so the solid waste hauler can readily reach them, with placement or size disputes referred to the county for nuisance abatement. Section 4.04.120 sets the timing: carts cannot go out more than 24 hours before the Weekly Collection Service day, and after collection they must be moved back to a less conspicuous area within 24 hours so they don't create a nuisance for neighboring premises.
Violations & Fines
Setting carts out more than 24 hours early or leaving empty carts visible more than 24 hours after pickup is a nuisance referable for County abatement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I put my cart at the curb?
Do I have to hide my cart between pickups?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Mateo County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Mateo County to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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