Pacifica, CA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- PMC § 6-5.105
- Minimum pickup frequency
- Once each week
- Higher frequency trigger
- Volume exceeds container capacity
- Who may collect refuse
- City's exclusive franchised scavenger
- Unauthorized collection
- Unlawful under § 6-5.108
Summary
Pacifica Municipal Code Section 6-5.105 requires the scavenger to empty garbage containers at least once each week, and lets the City order a higher pickup frequency when a property's waste volume outgrows the subscribed service level.
The contents of garbage containers shall be delivered not less than once each week to the scavenger authorized by the City to collect garbage in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and the franchise agreement between the City and the scavenger however, the City may require a higher frequency of collection beyond the subscribed or regularly scheduled service, if the frequency of collection is inadequate for the garbage, rubbish or waste generated by the owner as provided in section 6-5.103(g).
Full Breakdown
105 sets the baseline pickup rule for Pacifica's franchised garbage service: containers must be emptied not less than once each week by the scavenger authorized under the City's franchise agreement. 103(g), which gives the City authority to require a higher frequency of collection, or a different container size, beyond a subscriber's regular schedule if the volume of garbage, rubbish, or waste being generated exceeds what the current service level can handle. 103(g). 110. 108 makes it unlawful for anyone other than the City's authorized scavenger, or a permit holder approved by the City Manager and Council, to collect, transport, or carry refuse over Pacifica streets.
Violations & Fines
A scavenger that fails to meet the weekly minimum pickup frequency is out of compliance with Section 6-5.105 and subject to the terms of its franchise agreement with the City. Collecting refuse without the required franchise, contract, or City Manager-issued permit is unlawful under Section 6-5.108, and interfering with an authorized scavenger's collection is a separate violation under Section 6-5.111.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does trash have to be picked up in Pacifica?
Can Pacifica require more frequent pickup than once a week?
Can I hire my own hauler instead of the city's contracted scavenger?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pacifica
California rules heatmap·Compare Pacifica to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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