Berkeley, CA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Provider
- City of Berkeley Zero Waste Division
- Frequency
- Weekly for all three streams
- Set-out time
- By 6 a.m. on service day
- Phone
- (510) 981-7270
- Authority
- BMC Chapter 11.28
Summary
Berkeley Zero Waste Division provides weekly curbside collection of refuse, recycling, and compost. Carts must be at the curb by 6 a.m. on the scheduled day and removed by the end of collection day.
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Full Breakdown
The City of Berkeley's Zero Waste Division (Public Works) handles residential garbage, recycling, and organics collection under BMC Chapter 11.28. Service is billed through the refuse fee on your utility bill and is tied to the size of your gray refuse cart. Recycling (split blue carts for paper and containers) and green compost carts are collected weekly at no extra fee. Carts must be placed curbside no earlier than the night before and by 6 a.m. on pickup day, with handles facing the house and at least three feet between carts for the automated truck arm. Berkeley operates on a holiday schedule that shifts collection by one day for major holidays. Residents can check schedules and request cart exchanges by calling (510) 981-7270 or using the Zero Waste online portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who picks up trash in Berkeley?
When should I put my carts out?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Berkeley
California rules heatmap·Compare Berkeley to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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