Compton, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Coverage threshold
- 4+ cubic yards solid waste/week
- Covered generators
- Businesses and multifamily dwellings
- Compliance paths
- Collector bin, self-haul, or sell/donate
- Exemption renewal
- Annual reapplication required
- Self-hauler reporting
- Quarterly: Mar, Jun, Sep, Dec
- City authority
- Inspection of premises and containers
Summary
Compton businesses and multifamily properties generating four cubic yards or more of solid waste a week must divert recyclables from the trash under Municipal Code § 21-1.8(b), either by using the authorized collector's recycling containers, self-hauling under permit, or selling and donating the material, with an annual exemption process for those with none to divert.
Except as otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, public entities or commercial businesses (including, but not limited to, a firm, partnership, proprietorship, joint stock company, corporation, or association that is organized as a for-profit entity or nonprofit entity) that generate four cubic yards or more of solid waste per week and multifamily dwellings ("business" or "businesses" for purposes of this section) shall divert their solid waste from disposal by taking one, or any combination, of the following actions in compliance with the requirements of Chapter 12.8 of Part 3 of Division 30 of the California Public Resources Code (Section 42649 et seq.): Source separate recyclable materials and make arrangements with an authorized collector for delivery of a container or containers designated for recyclable materials, and deposit recyclable materials in the designated container or containers provided by the authorized collector.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4952997; v15 updated 2026-07-14; through 07-14-2026).
Full Breakdown
that generate four cubic yards or more of solid waste per week and multifamily dwellings,' folding apartment buildings into the same threshold as stores and offices. 7(c) permit. 8(b)(2). 8(b)(5). 8(b)(6). 8(b)(8) to keep businesses in compliance.
Violations & Fines
A business that fails to divert recyclables under one of the three § 21-1.8(b) compliance paths, mixes non-recyclables into a designated recycling bin, or lets an approved exemption lapse without renewal is out of compliance with Chapter 21. The City notifies noncompliant businesses directly under § 21-1.8(b)(7), and violations carry the same Chapter 21 misdemeanor exposure as other waste offenses under § 21-1.11(d), enforced by the City Manager or City Code Enforcement Officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Compton businesses must recycle under the mandatory program?
How can a business comply with Compton's recycling mandate?
Can a business get out of the recycling requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Compton
California rules heatmap·Compare Compton to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Recycling Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle recycling requirements.