San Diego, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- SDMC Ch. 6, Art. 6, Div. 7
- Collection
- Biweekly curbside recycling
- SB 1383
- Organic waste must go in green bin
- Blue Bin
- Paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, metals
- Contamination
- Non-recyclables in blue bin may trigger warnings
Summary
San Diego requires recyclable materials to be placed in approved blue recycling containers per SDMC Chapter 6, Article 6, Division 7. The City collects recyclables biweekly. SB 1383 compliance requires organic waste separation in green bins. The City has updated collection operations and amended franchise agreements to meet state recycling mandates. Contamination of recycling bins with non-recyclable materials may result in service warnings.
Landfilled food and other organic waste rotting in landfills emits methane climate pollution contributing to California’s hotter summers, more frequent droughts, and more wildfires. 3 MILLION CARS worth of climate pollution will be cut by reaching SB 1383’s recycling and food rescue targets SB 1383 Progress Program News...
Full Breakdown
San Diego mandates curbside recycling for paper, cardboard, glass, aluminum, and plastics #1-#5. Residents must separate recyclables from trash using provided bins. Contaminated bins containing food waste, plastic bags, or non-recyclable items may be rejected. California recycling goals encourage diversion from landfills. Multi-family properties above a certain unit count may have additional commercial recycling requirements. Yard waste and food scraps may have separate programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recycling mandatory in San Diego?
What can I put in the blue recycling bin?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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Recycling Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle recycling requirements.