Berkeley requires separation of recyclables and organics from trash for all residents and businesses under BMC 11.28 and California SB 1383, with fines for contaminated or commingled loads.
Berkeley was an early adopter of mandatory source separation. Under BMC Chapter 11.28 and California SB 1383 (statewide organics mandate effective 2022), all single-family, multi-family, and commercial accounts must separate recyclables (blue split cart for paper and containers) and organics (green cart for food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard trimmings) from landfill trash (gray cart). Food scraps must go in the compost cart, not the trash. Plastic bags, film, styrofoam, and diapers belong in the landfill cart. Commercial generators must arrange edible food recovery if they meet SB 1383 tier thresholds. Contaminated carts may be tagged, and repeat offenses can result in fees or service upsizing. Berkeley's Zero Waste goal targets 75 percent diversion with ongoing outreach and audits.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle recycling requirements.
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