Santa Rosa, CA Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)

Chapter 9-12 does not let residents choose whether to have trash service: § 9-12.070(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. For single-family and small residential premises, § 9-12.070(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.

The entire collection system runs through a single exclusive contract authorized by § 9-12.140, with the City Council retaining power to set additional contract terms under § 9-12.160 and to grant contract extensions under § 9-12.170. Because the contractor holds exclusive rights under § 9-12.180, no resident may arrange for a competing hauler to collect garbage for a fee, and § 9-12.190 separately bars interfering with the contractor's collection and transport of materials. The City Manager administers rates for any specialized services not otherwise covered, subject to City Council review on request, per § 9-12.030(B).