Ontario, CA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)

Ontario Municipal Code governs where residential solid waste carts may be placed and stored. On collection day carts must be at the curb or edge of the street with wheels and handles facing the home, arrows facing the street, and a minimum of 3 feet of clear space on all sides so Burrtec automated side-loaders can grab them without obstruction. Carts must not block sidewalks, driveways, fire hydrants, mailboxes, or storm drains under OMC Chapter 4. Between collections, carts must be stored on side yards, in garages, or behind fences screened from the street under the Ontario Development Code zoning provisions that prohibit storage of refuse containers in front yards. HOAs in Ontario may impose stricter visibility rules through their CCRs. Damaged or stolen carts remain property of Burrtec and must be reported for replacement; residents may be charged if damage is caused by abuse or placement in a truck travel lane. Placing bags or items outside the cart without a bulky pickup scheduled is considered illegal dumping under OMC Section 5-2.05.