Chico, CA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Set-out window
- No more than 12 hours early
- Pickup
- Must remove same collection day
- Placement
- Cannot block streets, sidewalks, driveways
- Container type
- City manager-approved, securely covered
- Downtown exception
- Different rule under § 8.12.085
Summary
Chico limits when trash and recycling bins may sit at the curb: no more than 12 hours before pickup, and they must be pulled back the same collection day, per Municipal Code § 8.12.080.
The solid waste receptacle shall not be placed in the front yard or adjoining public right-of-way more than12 hours in advance of the day on which solid waste collection services are to be provided, and shall be removed from the front yard or adjoining public right-of-way the same day upon which solid waste collection services are provided.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico regulates when solid waste receptacles may sit in front yards or public rights-of-way ahead of pickup. Under Municipal Code § 8.12.080, containers set out to catch collection cannot be placed more than 12 hours before the scheduled service day and must be removed the same day collection occurs. Receptacles must also be a city-manager-approved type, kept securely covered with no waste left outside the container, and positioned so they never block a public street, sidewalk, or driveway. The downtown central business district runs on a different sidewalk-only evening-to-morning window under § 8.12.085.
Violations & Fines
Setting a receptacle out early, leaving it at the curb past pickup day, or blocking a sidewalk or driveway is unlawful under § 8.12.080 and enforceable by the City as a code violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I put my trash bin out in Chico?
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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