San Diego, CA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Containers
- Must be covered and leakproof
- Surrounding area
- Must stay clear of waste
- Manual-collection bin cap
- 45 gallons / 50 lbs filled
- Disposal bag cap
- 40 lbs filled
Summary
San Diego property owners and occupants must keep enough covered, leakproof trash and recycling containers on site and keep the area around them free of waste.
It is unlawful for any responsible person in lawful possession, charge, or control of any boarding house, lodging house, bungalow court, hotel, motel, inn, apartment, residence, or any other dwelling...to fail to provide containers which are adequate to contain the amount of refuse and recyclable material ordinarily accumulated at such place during the intervals between collection...to fail to maintain covered refuse and recyclable material containers...to fail to maintain the area surrounding the refuse and recyclable material containers clear of waste.
Full Breakdown
Municipal Code section 66.0126 makes it unlawful for anyone in possession or control of a residence, apartment, hotel, campground, or commercial establishment to fail to provide containers adequate for the refuse generated between pickups, to fail to keep those containers covered, or to fail to keep the surrounding area clear of waste. Containers set out must be in good condition, clean, leakproof, and waterproof, and manual-collection containers need tight-fitting lids and a tapered shape. Bags used for disposal can't exceed 40 pounds; rigid containers can't exceed 45 gallons or 50 pounds filled.
Violations & Fines
Uncovered, damaged, or overflowing containers, or an unclean surrounding area, violate 66.0126; the City can refuse to service noncompliant containers and may terminate collection service at its discretion under 66.0126(j).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the City stop collecting my trash?
Do I need a lid on my trash can?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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Bin Placement Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle bin placement rules.