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

San Francisco Public Works Code § 170(a) sets exactly when bins may be at the curb: no can, container, or receptacle may be placed on the sidewalk, street, or public right-of-way except on the collection day itself or after 6:00 p.m. on the day immediately before collection. So the earliest you may move bins out is 6:00 p.m. the night before pickup. Residential premises must remove bins within 24 hours of setting them out, once the contents have been collected; commercial premises must remove them immediately after collection or upon opening for business. Between collections, bins must be stored out of public view on private property. Bins should not block sidewalks, driveways, fire hydrants, or bike lanes, and Recology guidance is to have carts at the curb with lids closed before service begins on collection day. Violations are infractions carrying fines from $80 up to $500 for repeat offenses, or an administrative penalty of up to $250.