Fresno, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Recycling Cart
- Blue cart: paper, plastic, glass, metal
- Organics Cart
- Green cart: food scraps, yard waste
- SB 1383
- Mandatory organic waste diversion
- Commercial
- 4+ cubic yards/week must have recycling
- Multi-Family
- 5+ units must have recycling and organics
Summary
Fresno mandates recycling participation under state laws including AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383. All residents must use the blue recycling cart for paper, cardboard, plastics (#1-7), glass, and metals. SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion through the green cart for food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard trimmings. Commercial generators producing four or more cubic yards of waste per week must have recycling service.
(a) Consistent with Section 39730.5, methane emissions reduction goals shall include the following targets to reduce the landfill disposal of organics: (1) A 50-percent reduction in the level of the statewide disposal of organic waste from the 2014 level by 2020. (2) A 75-percent reduction in the level of the statewide disposal of organic waste from the 2014 level by 2025. ... The department, in consultation with the State Air Resources Board, shall adopt regulations to achieve the organic waste reduction goals for 2020 and 2025 established in Section 39730.6 of the Health and Safety Code.
Full Breakdown
California's SB 1383, fully enforced since January 2024, requires all jurisdictions to reduce organic waste disposal by 75% from 2014 levels. Fresno residents must separate organic materials including food waste into the green cart. The City provides educational materials on proper sorting. Commercial properties and multi-family complexes with five or more units must have recycling and organics collection. The City reports diversion rates to CalRecycle and faces penalties for non-compliance with state mandates.
Violations & Fines
Residents who consistently fail to recycle may receive educational notices. Commercial generators without required recycling service face state penalties. The City faces CalRecycle enforcement for failing to meet diversion mandates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to separate food waste in Fresno?
What can go in the blue recycling cart?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno
California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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Recycling Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fresno County handle recycling requirements.