San Mateo, CA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Provider
- Recology SM County: 650-595-3900
- Collection
- Weekly: varies by area
- Three Carts
- Trash (gray), recycling (blue), organics (green)
- SB 1383
- Organic waste separation required
- Diversion Goal
- 75% statewide target
Summary
Recology San Mateo County provides weekly curbside collection of trash, recyclables, and organic waste. SB 1383 requires organic waste separation. Bins must be at the curb by collection morning and retrieved by evening.
It is the intent of the Legislature to support the adoption of policies that improve organics recycling and innovative, cost effective, and environmentally beneficial uses of biomethane derived from solid waste facilities. [...] SEC. 2. Section 39730.5 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read: 39730.5. (a) No later than January 1, 2018, the state board shall approve and begin implementing the comprehensive short-lived climate pollutant strategy developed pursuant to Section 39730.
Full Breakdown
Recology San Mateo County provides residential curbside collection under the city's franchise agreement. Each household receives three carts: gray for trash, blue for recyclables, and green for organic waste. Collection occurs weekly on a scheduled day. Under SB 1383, all residents must separate food scraps and organic waste into the green bin. Bins should be placed at the curb by the morning of collection and retrieved by evening. Holiday schedules may shift collection by one day. Recology customer service is at 650-595-3900. The city tracks waste diversion rates to meet California's 75% diversion goal.
Violations & Fines
Contaminated recycling may be rejected. SB 1383 non-compliance may result in fines once enforcement is fully implemented.
Frequently Asked Questions
What day is trash pickup?
Do I have to separate food scraps?
What goes in the blue bin?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Mateo
California rules heatmap·Compare San Mateo to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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Pickup Rules & Schedules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Mateo County handle pickup rules & schedules.