Santa Monica, CA Trash & Recycling: Mandatory Organics Recycling (2026)
Key Facts
- Container system required
- Three-container: black (trash), blue (recyclables), green (organics)
- Green container materials
- Food scraps, food-soiled paper, and other organic waste
- First violation fine
- $100
- Third+ violation fine
- $500
- De minimis waiver threshold
- <20 gal/week organics (if total service ≥2 cu yd/week)
- Effective date
- January 1, 2022
Summary
Santa Monica requires all generators, residential and commercial, to use a three-container collection system (black, blue, green) and to source-separate organic waste including food scraps into the green container. Organics must not be placed in the black or blue containers.
Generators shall have and maintain a three-container solid waste collection system consisting of black containers, blue containers, and green containers, and shall comply with the general requirements specified in Section 9.21.130 of this Code. (b) Generators shall separate materials into their correct containers and shall not place prohibited container contaminants in any container... Generators shall place source separated green container organic waste, including food scraps, in the green container; source separated recyclable materials in the blue container; and solid waste in the black container. Generators shall not place materials designated for the black container into the green container or blue container.
Full Breakdown
Implemented under SB 1383 state law, the ordinance requires subscription to the City's three-container service. Single-family residents must separate food scraps and other green container organic waste into the green bin, recyclables into the blue bin, and other solid waste into the black bin. Commercial businesses and multi-family properties must also provide properly labeled or color-coded containers in indoor and outdoor areas for employees, tenants, and customers. Waivers are available for businesses generating very small amounts of organics or lacking physical space for containers.
Violations & Fines
First violation: $100 per violation. Second violation: $200 per violation. Third or subsequent violation: $500 per violation. Administrative citations may be issued; civil action or criminal prosecution may also be pursued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sort my food scraps into a separate bin?
What happens if I put the wrong material in a container?
Can a business get a waiver from the organics requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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