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San Diego County, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: County Stormwater/Waste →

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Key Facts

Residential: Recycling + organics separation required
Commercial: Mandatory recycling for 4+ cu yd/week
Organics: SB 1383 — required since Jan 2022
Accepted Materials: Paper, cardboard, glass, metals, plastics
State Laws

City-specific rules exist: Vista, San Diego, Chula Vista, Oceanside, El Cajon, Escondido, and Carlsbad have their own recycling requirements rules that differ from San Diego County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

California's mandatory recycling laws (AB 341, SB 1383) apply in unincorporated San Diego County. Residents must separate recyclables and organic waste. Businesses generating 4+ cubic yards of waste weekly must recycle. Organic waste diversion required since January 2022.

Full Breakdown

California AB 341 requires mandatory commercial recycling for businesses generating 4 or more cubic yards of waste per week. SB 1383, effective January 1, 2022, requires all residents and businesses to separate organic waste (food scraps, yard trimmings, food-soiled paper) for composting or anaerobic digestion. The County ensures franchised haulers provide recycling and organics collection. Recyclable materials include paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and plastics #1-5 and #7. Contamination (non-recyclable items in recycling bins) reduces recycling effectiveness and may result in loads being sent to landfill. CalRecycle provides statewide guidance on recycling requirements.

Violations & Fines

SB 1383 violations may result in penalties after an education and warning period. Businesses failing to recycle under AB 341 face fines from CalRecycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I recycle in unincorporated San Diego County?

Generally: paper, cardboard, glass bottles/jars, metal cans, and plastics #1-5 and #7. Check with your waste hauler for specific accepted materials, as they vary by facility.

Do I have to separate food scraps?

Yes. SB 1383 requires all California residents to separate organic waste including food scraps, yard trimmings, and food-soiled paper for composting. Your hauler should provide a green organics bin.

What happens if I put non-recyclables in the recycling bin?

Contamination can cause entire loads to be sent to landfill. Common contaminants include plastic bags, food-soiled items, and non-recyclable plastics. When in doubt, put it in the trash.

How does San Diego County compare?

See how San Diego County's recycling requirements rules stack up against other locations.

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San Diego County, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

CalRecycle — Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SB 1383) organic waste reduction regulations

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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