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

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

Key Facts

Minimum container
32-gallon automatic-lift, one per unit
Minimum frequency
At least once per week
Residential hours
6 a.m.–7 p.m. (8 p.m. DST)
Other-area hours
4 a.m.–7 p.m. (8 p.m. DST)
Vacancy suspension
30+ consecutive days vacant, reduced fee
Civil penalty
$250–$25,000 per violation per day

Summary

Sacramento requires every residential and residential mixed-use property to subscribe to city garbage collection service, keep at least one 32-gallon automatic-lift container, and receive pickup no less than once a week. Crews collect only between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight saving time) in residential areas, and between 4 a.m. and 7 p.m. elsewhere.

13.10.210 A. All owners of residential property and residential mixed-use property in the city where garbage is created, generated, accumulated, or produced shall subscribe to garbage collection service provided by the city ... unless the solid waste manager determines that service is not feasible for a specific property. ... 13.10.220 A.1. Each dwelling unit, excluding an accessory dwelling unit as defined in section 17.108.050, shall have one 32-gallon automatic lift container or equivalent, as determined by the solid waste manager. 2. Garbage collection service shall not be less than once per week. ... 13.10.110 Refuse shall be collected within residential areas or within mixed residential and commercial areas of the city only between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. (or 8:00 p.m. during daylight savings time) of the same day, and elsewhere within the city only between the hours of 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. (or 8:00 p.m. during daylight savings time) of the same day.

Source: City of Sacramento Recycling & Solid Waste DivisionView official code

Full Breakdown

210, every owner of residential or residential mixed-use property where garbage is generated must subscribe to city-provided collection service unless the solid waste manager determines service is not feasible for that specific property; commercial owners must instead subscribe through a city franchisee. 050) must have one 32-gallon automatic-lift container or an equivalent set by the solid waste manager, and collection cannot be less than once per week. The solid waste manager may adjust the number or size of containers to ensure proper collection. 230 separately requires owners to subscribe to whatever frequency of service is necessary to prevent garbage from accumulating on the property for more than a week.

m. m. during daylight saving time). 070), but street sweeping and organic waste service are not suspended absent a special determination by the solid waste manager.

Violations & Fines

Violating this chapter carries civil penalties of not less than $250 and not more than $25,000 per separate violation per day it continues, plus criminal, civil, or administrative remedies under Chapter 1.28, and the violation is also declared a public nuisance (§ 13.10.150). A person may also be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable under Cal. Gov't Code § 36900. Anyone adversely affected by a solid waste manager or director determination may appeal to the city council within 10 days of the decision (§ 13.10.160).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to subscribe to city trash service in Sacramento?
Yes. City Code § 13.10.210 requires every owner of residential or residential mixed-use property generating garbage to subscribe to city collection service, unless the solid waste manager finds service isn't feasible for that specific property. Commercial owners subscribe through a city franchisee instead.
How often is garbage picked up in Sacramento?
At least once per week. Section 13.10.220 sets a one-per-week minimum collection frequency for residential property, with a required 32-gallon automatic-lift container (or equivalent) per dwelling unit, excluding accessory dwelling units.
What hours can trash trucks collect in my neighborhood?
In residential and mixed residential/commercial areas, only between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m. during daylight saving time). Elsewhere in the city, collection runs 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m. during daylight saving time), per § 13.10.110.
Can I pause trash service while my house is vacant?
Yes, if the dwelling unit is vacant and uninhabited for at least 30 consecutive days. Under § 13.10.070 you can request a suspension and pay a reduced charge, but service is restored immediately once the unit is reoccupied.

Sources & Official References

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