Alhambra, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Service requirement
- arrange collector or get self-haul permit
- Legal basis
- California Integrated Waste Management Act 1989
- Recyclables ownership
- transfers to agent once placed
- Categories set by
- City Council resolution
- Enforcement
- City Manager, Code Enforcement Officers
- Violation class
- misdemeanor
Summary
Alhambra Municipal Code § 6.16.050 requires every premises' operator to contract with a licensed collector for solid waste, or obtain a self-haul permit, and to implement measures meeting the diversion goals of the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939).
In order to protect the public health, safety and well-being and to prevent the spread of vectors, the person responsible for the day-to-day operation of every place or premises in the city shall make arrangements with a collector for the collection of solid wastes, as set forth in this chapter, or obtain a self-haul permit from the city, as provided for in § 6.16.210, below, and to implement measures to reach the diversion and other goals mandated by the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, as it may be amended from time to time.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-25: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. 4851, passed 10-27-25).
Full Breakdown
210, and must implement measures reaching the diversion and other goals the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 imposes on the city. 040 lets the City Council define separate collection categories, including recyclables and green waste, and impose different franchise, license, contract or permit terms for each. 230(B). 060 to fund planning, administration and diversion programs, and may waive permit fees for authorized recycling agents and green-waste collectors by Council resolution.
Violations & Fines
Failing to arrange collector service or obtain a self-haul permit violates § 6.16.050 and is enforced as a misdemeanor under § 6.16.290, punishable per §§ 1.12.010 through 1.12.050 with fines set by Council resolution, up to $1,000 under Cal. Gov't Code § 36901, or imprisonment up to six months, each day a separate offense. Removing recyclables an authorized agent already owns under § 6.16.220 exposes the offender to a civil action by that agent under § 6.16.310, citing Public Resources Code §§ 41950-41951.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it mandatory to have trash and recycling service in Alhambra?
Can I haul my own recycling instead of using the city collector?
Who owns recyclables once I set them out at the curb in Alhambra?
What state law drives Alhambra's recycling program?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Alhambra
California rules heatmap·Compare Alhambra to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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