Santa Rosa, CA Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- SRCC § 9-12.070(A)(1), (A)(4)
- Enrollment
- Automatic, not optional
- Collector
- Exclusive City-contracted hauler
- Penalty for violation
- Misdemeanor, § 9-12.040(B)
Summary
Santa Rosa City Code § 9-12.070(A) automatically enrolls every service recipient in garbage, recycling, and organic waste collection through the City's contracted hauler; opting out of the base service is not an option under the ordinance.
Except as provided in this section, the provision of collection services shall be governed by the collection services contract. (A) Residential Collection Services. (1) Residential Garbage Service. Each service recipient shall use only the containers, provided by the contractor, for the purpose of depositing and accumulating garbage from the premises. (4) All service recipients shall be automatically enrolled in garbage, recycling, and organic waste service, and shall sort recycling and organic waste and place it in the appropriate container.
Full Breakdown
070(A)(4) states that all service recipients "shall be automatically enrolled" in garbage, recycling, and organic waste collection and must sort materials into the right container. 070(A)(1) requires the household to use only the containers supplied by the City's contractor for depositing garbage generated on the premises; private trash cans or third-party bins do not satisfy the rule. Multifamily developments of five or more units and mobile home parks fall under separate subsections, (B) and (C), which likewise mandate automatic enrollment and central collection facilities for garbage, recycling, and organics. 170. 190 separately bars interfering with the contractor's collection and transport of materials. 030(B).
Violations & Fines
Using an unauthorized cart or hauler, or refusing enrollment, is a violation of Chapter 9-12 and a misdemeanor under § 9-12.040(B), enforced by the City Manager, who may enter premises to check compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I decline trash service in Santa Rosa?
Can I use my own trash can instead of the City cart?
Who collects the trash in Santa Rosa?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Rosa
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