Alameda, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Recycling is required for all Alameda residents and businesses. The Alameda County Waste Management Authority (StopWaste) adopted the Organics Reduction and Recycling Ordinance (ORRO), implemented through the Alameda County Solid Waste Collection and Organic Waste Reduction Ordinance and County Regulations effective January 1, 2022, which require all businesses and residences in the county's waste-program jurisdiction to subscribe to curbside collection for trash, recycling, and compost through an authorized hauler—in the City of Alameda, that hauler is Alameda County Industries (ACI)—unless a waiver has been granted. Residents must separate recyclables from trash; ACI provides blue recycling carts in 32, 64, and 96-gallon sizes (single-family customers can get a larger recycling cart at no extra charge). Accepted recyclables include clean paper, cardboard, paperboard, cartons, glass and metal containers, and plastics #1–7 except foam. Enforcement under ORRO escalates: after a warning letter, a site has 60 days to arrange compost and recycling service or get a waiver; if it does not, a citation issues and fines increase every 60 days, up to $500 for sites that continue without required service. Because Alameda is an incorporated city participating in the county program, these mandatory recycling requirements apply on top of the City's own solid-waste code (AMC Chapter XXI). Commercial waivers are processed by StopWaste.