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El Cajon, CA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Provider
EDCO Disposal: 619-287-7555
Collection
Weekly: varies by neighborhood
Bin Placement
By 6 AM, lids closed
Three Bins
Trash, recycling, organics/green
SB 1383
Organic waste separation required

Summary

EDCO Disposal provides weekly curbside collection of trash, recyclables, and green waste for El Cajon residents. Collection is on a scheduled weekday. Bins must be placed at the curb by 6:00 AM on collection day with lids closed. California SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion.

SB 1383, Lara. Short-lived climate pollutants: methane emissions: dairy and livestock: organic waste: landfills. (1) The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to approve a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020. The state board is also required to complete a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants, as defined, in the state.

Full Breakdown

EDCO Disposal Corporation provides residential curbside collection in El Cajon under the city's franchise agreement. Each residence receives three bins: gray/black for trash, blue for recyclables, and green for organic waste and yard trimmings. Collection occurs on a scheduled weekday that varies by neighborhood. Bins must be at the curb by 6:00 AM on collection day with lids fully closed. Under California SB 1383 (Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction), all residents must separate organic waste (food scraps and green waste) into the green bin. EDCO provides guidelines on what materials go in each bin. Holiday collection schedules are typically delayed by one day when a holiday falls on or before the regular collection day. EDCO customer service is available at 619-287-7555.

Violations & Fines

Contamination of recycling bins with non-recyclable materials may result in the bin being left uncollected. Failure to comply with SB 1383 organic waste requirements may eventually result in fines once enforcement is fully implemented.

Frequently Asked Questions

What day is trash pickup in El Cajon?
Collection day varies by neighborhood. Contact EDCO at 619-287-7555 or check their website to find your scheduled collection day.
Do I have to separate food scraps?
Yes. Under California SB 1383, food scraps and organic waste must be placed in the green organics bin, not the trash bin.
What goes in the blue recycling bin?
Paper, cardboard, glass bottles, aluminum and tin cans, and plastic containers marked #1-#7. Check EDCO guidelines for specific accepted items.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in El Cajon

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