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Sonora, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

State Laws
AB 341 and SB 1383
Curbside Items
Paper, plastic 1-5, glass, metal
Not Accepted
Bags, Styrofoam, electronics
Hauler
Cal-Waste Recovery Systems

Summary

Sonora requires residential and commercial recycling through Cal-Waste Recovery Systems in compliance with California AB 341 and SB 1383. Mixed recyclables are collected curbside weekly. Contamination of recycling bins with non-recyclable materials may result in rejected loads.

SB 1383 Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy 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... California s 1383 Implementation Progress Recycling Services and Edible Food Collection Complaints Portal Resources for Transfer/Processing Facilities Recordkeeping Requirements and Tools Article 2: Determination of Technologies that Constitute a Reduction in Landfill Disposal Elected Officials Web Page Department Issued Waivers and Exemptions Page Optional Recycled

Full Breakdown

California AB 341 mandates recycling for all businesses generating four or more cubic yards of waste per week, and SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion. Sonora residents receive recycling bins from Cal-Waste Recovery Systems as part of standard service. Accepted recyclables include mixed paper, cardboard, plastics numbered 1-5, glass bottles and jars, and aluminum and steel cans. Items must be clean, dry, and free of food contamination. Plastic bags, Styrofoam, and electronics are not accepted in curbside recycling. Cal-Waste provides educational materials on proper sorting. The Tuolumne County transfer station accepts additional recyclable materials not suitable for curbside collection.

Violations & Fines

Contaminated recycling bins may be rejected and left uncollected. Businesses failing to comply with AB 341 recycling mandates may face CalRecycle enforcement and fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I recycle in Sonora?
Curbside recycling accepts mixed paper, cardboard, plastics numbered 1-5, glass bottles and jars, and aluminum and steel cans. Items must be clean, dry, and free of food contamination.
What should not go in Sonora recycling bins?
Do not place plastic bags, Styrofoam, electronics, hazardous materials, or food-contaminated items in recycling bins. These contaminate loads and may cause your bin to be rejected.
Are Sonora businesses required to recycle?
Yes. California AB 341 requires businesses generating four or more cubic yards of waste per week to recycle. SB 1383 adds organic waste diversion requirements for all businesses.

Sources & Official References

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