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

Bin placement in the unincorporated area is governed by the Solid Waste Ordinance, Sec. 68.571. Subsection (h) states that no owner, occupant, or operator 'shall place, deposit, or allow any containers to remain on a street, curb, sidewalk, or any other place in a public or private right of way before 6:00 p.m. of the day prior to the regular day for collection by a collector or CRMC, or after 12:00 p.m. on the day following collection day.' The same subsection requires placing containers 'in a location immediately adjacent to and bordering their premises unless otherwise arranged by collector or CRMC and approved by Director.' Subsection (g) prohibits placing containers 'in a manner that impedes access to neighboring driveways, mailboxes, utilities, or easements.' Subsection (e) requires using containers of adequate size and in sufficient numbers to contain all discarded materials without overflowing, and subsection (f) requires that any plastic or paper bags used as containers be tied, sealed, or securely fastened. A violation of Sec. 68.571 is charged as an infraction, and a person convicted of two or more violations in a one-year period may be charged with a misdemeanor at the prosecutor's discretion. These are County rules specific to unincorporated areas, distinct from any city's regulations.