Salinas, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

Sec. 12 requires each generator to source-separate recyclable materials from garbage and construction debris and to contract with the exclusive franchisee for recycling collection, unless an exemption applies. Commercial and industrial generators may be excused if the city manager or designee finds their existing recycling activity meets state and local diversion requirements, including self-hauling recyclables in a vehicle owned by the generator or its own employee (not a hired third party), or selling or donating source-separated recyclables to a buyer that is not itself in the business of collecting solid waste for a fee.

Additional exemptions cover properties with a valid trash-collection exemption, businesses holding a waiver under Sec. 15, and government agencies collecting recyclables with their own vehicles and staff. Sec. 13(b) requires commercial businesses to provide recycling containers wherever they provide disposal containers for employees, tenants and customers, with blue bodies or lids for recycling (containers bought before January 1, 2022 may keep running until January 1, 2036) or, alternatively, labels stating what materials belong in the container. Sec. 14 requires businesses to train employees on proper sorting, inspect recycling containers for contamination at least twice a year, and post signage where recyclables are collected or stored. The city may inspect containers and collection vehicle loads, including through remote monitoring equipment on carts, under Sec. 31 to confirm compliance.