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

Under Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 9.28 and the RecycleMore JPA rules, all single-family and multi-family properties must subscribe to Republic Services' three-cart service. Cart sizes available: 20, 32, 64, and 96 gallons for trash; 64 or 96 gallons for recycling and organics. Rates are volume-based; smaller trash carts cost less. Carts remain the property of Republic Services; tenants should not paint, modify, or remove them. Lids must close flat — overfilled carts (lid propped open more than a few inches) may be refused or assessed an overage fee. Additional bags outside the cart require pre-purchased overage tags available from Republic. Contamination in the blue (recycling) or green (organics) carts triggers warning tags on first occurrence and contamination fees ($25-75) on repeat incidents, as required under SB 1383 audit rules. Commercial accounts must use appropriate-sized bins; dumpsters require setback and screening per zoning code when visible from public rights-of-way. Residents should rinse food residue from recyclables and keep organics loose or in BPI-certified compostable bags. Bear-resistant carts are not required in Richmond (no bear population). Damaged or stolen carts should be reported to Republic Services for free replacement; the first replacement is typically free, subsequent replacements may carry a fee.