Arcadia, CA Trash & Recycling: Mandatory Organics Recycling (2026)

Part 4 of Article V, Chapter 1 of the Arcadia Municipal Code implements SB 1383. Section 5140 requires single-family organic waste generators to subscribe to the City's Organic Waste collection services for all organic waste generated, and to place designated materials in designated containers without placing Prohibited Container Contaminants in them. The three-container service works like this: Source Separated Green Container Organic Waste, including Food Waste, goes in the Green Container, Source Separated Recyclable Materials go in the Blue Container, and Gray Container Waste goes in the Gray Container. Section 5140(1) also lets the City review the number and size of a generator's containers and requires single-family generators to adjust their service level when the City asks. Residents can additionally reduce organic waste, compost in the backyard, or use a community composting site.

Section 5140.2 applies the same three-container duty to commercial businesses and multi-family dwellings, and adds requirements: container labels or colors, indoor and outdoor containers for customers (restrooms excepted), annual information to employees and tenants, education for new tenants within fourteen days of occupation, and cooperation with the City's Remote Monitoring program. Multi-family dwellings are excused from the placement, labeling and contamination-inspection duties.

Waivers exist under Section 5140.3. A de minimis waiver depends on organic waste under 20 gallons per week per applicable container for a business with two cubic yards or more of weekly solid waste, or under 10 gallons for smaller generators. A physical space waiver needs documentation from the hauler, a licensed architect or a licensed engineer. The Public Works Services Director reviews and inspects the premises within ten business days of an application.

Section 5140.7 authorizes the City to inspect containers, vehicle loads and facilities at random, but it does not allow entry into the interior of a private residential property. The City also receives written complaints, including anonymous ones.