San Leandro, CA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Set-out time
- By 6:00 a.m. on collection day
- Spacing between carts
- 3 feet minimum
- Franchised haulers
- ACI and WMAC (by zone)
- Self-hauling allowed?
- Yes, for own generated waste only
- Holiday delays
- New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas (1-day delay)
Summary
San Leandro uses exclusive franchised haulers (Alameda County Industries and Waste Management of Alameda County). Carts must be at the curb by 6:00 a.m. on collection day with at least 3 feet between carts.
The state board is also required to complete a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants, as defined, in the state. This bill would require the state board, no later than January 1, 2018, to approve and begin implementing that comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants to achieve a reduction in methane by 40%, hydrofluorocarbon gases by 40%, and anthropogenic black carbon by 50% below 2013 levels by 2030, as specified. The bill also would establish specified targets for reducing organic waste in landfills.
Full Breakdown
San Leandro Municipal Code Chapter 3-6 (Discarding and Collection of Solid Waste, Recyclables, and Green Waste) establishes the franchise system. Under SLMC §3-6-320 it is unlawful for anyone other than the City's exclusive franchisee to collect solid waste, recyclables, or green waste within the City, though an owner/occupant may self-haul their own generated materials to an authorized disposal facility. The two franchised haulers operate in different service areas: Alameda County Industries (ACI) and Waste Management of Alameda County (WMAC). Per the official hauler service guide, carts must be placed at the curb by 6:00 a.m. on the scheduled collection day, lids must close completely, carts may not be overloaded, and a 3-foot space must be left between each cart. Holiday-week service is delayed one day for New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Violations & Fines
Hiring an unfranchised hauler violates SLMC §3-6-320 and is enforced under the City's Community Preservation Ordinance: $100 first administrative citation, $200 second, $500 for continuing violations, with a 10-day cure period at each stage (per the City's Enforcement Process). The franchisee may also refuse service after two warnings for improper set-out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire my own private trash hauler in San Leandro?
What time do I need to put my carts out?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Leandro
California rules heatmap·Compare San Leandro to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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Pickup Rules & Schedules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle pickup rules & schedules.