Residents will dispose of all organic waste in their green waste bin, which is currently only used for yard waste, instead of the garbage bin. Organic waste refers to food waste (including vegetable and fruit scraps, eggshells, meat, dairy, bones, and rotting food), food-soiled paper, (including pizza boxes, coffee filters, and paper napkins) and yard trimmings. Residents who do not currently have a green yard waste cart will be provided a new cart for their organic waste service.
Will the Green Waste collection service become weekly once the food waste program goes into effect?
Yes, starting in July 2022, Green Waste service will be renamed "Organic Waste" service and will include green waste, food waste, and food soil paper products. Organic Waste carts will be serviced weekly on the same day as trash service.
Will there be any other changes to collection days?
There will be an A week and B week blue Recycling cart collection schedule for the city. There will only be a small percentage of residents who will be receiving a day change for their collection. Check the online calendar tool to see which week your blue Recycling cart is serviced. Direct outreach will also be delivered to those affected by the change.
Where should I store food waste until I bring it out to my green Organic Waste cart?
Food waste should be put directly into Organics Waste carts when able. Food can be stored in kitchen pails and paper bags until brought out to Organic Waste cart. Best practice tip: Freeze food waste to prevent smell and bacteria in the kitchen.
Will residents be able to put food waste in paper bags to secure food waste and lessen the amount of food waste that may stick to the insides of their green Organic Waste carts?
Yes, when the organics collection starts in July 2022, paper bags may be used to contain food waste inside the green Organic Waste carts.
What happens if a resident has more than one Green Waste cart now?
As of July 1, 2022 there will be weekly service for green Organic Waste carts (formerly known as Green Waste carts). This weekly collection service means most residents will no longer need an extra green cart. In addition, from November through January, residents can place up to 6 bags of leaves out (35 lbs limit) on collection day for free.
- Starting July 4th, if you choose to keep two or more green carts you will be charged a $14/month fee for the second cart and any thereafter. If you intend to reduce your number and/or size of carts for weekly collection, you must contact Republic Services Customer Service at 916-725-9060.
What if you don’t have an Organic Waste cart?
If you are in an HOA, your residential organization leadership should reach out to Republic Services to remedy. All single-family homes will be charged for this service whether the use their Organics Cart or not.