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Environmental Services

General Refuse Collection Information and Rules

Blue Bin Truck

The City of San Diego, Environmental Services Department operates a commingled, automated curbside collection program that currently serves approximately 265,000 eligible residents with trash, recycling and organic waste collection services. Automated refuse collection trucks are equipped with specially-designed hydraulic arms that grasp, lift and empty City-issued refuse containers. This automated collection program streamlines collection and prevents work-related injuries.

Customer trash is collected and brought primarily to Miramar Landfill, recyclables to local materials recovery facilities and organic waste to the Miramar Greenery

Container Setout and Collection

Customers must use City-approved automated refuse containers to receive trash, recycling and organic waste collection service.

Trash Bin Tips

Containers should be stored in a secured location that is not visible from the public right of way. This could include such locations as behind a fence, in your backyard or in your garage.

Please refer to collection services with a City of San Diego-approved private franchise hauler or certified recyclable material collector if you are a home on a private road or multifamily property, business, or mixed-use property with collection service already with a private waste hauler.

Help Keep Your Neighborhood Litter-free and Clean!

What CAN go in the Trash, Recycle and Organic Waste Recycle Bins

City of San Diego What Goes Where Guides

What Can NEVER Go in Any Bin

Please never put any of the following materials in the trash, recycling or organic waste recycling containers. These materials can harm refuse/waste collectors, the equipment and the environment.

Visit for more disposal and recycling information.

For further information, Contact Environmental Services at 858-694-7000 or trash@sandiego.gov.

Missed Containers

  • Trash, recycling and organic waste recycling containers placed in collection areas by 6 a.m. will be picked up unless they are in violation of City regulations.
  • If your container has not been collected: