San Diego’s gray trash bin rollout flips to full enforcement July 1

The City of San Diego is moving into full enforcement of its trash container switch on July 1, 2026. Starting that date, the City says it will no longer collect trash from older black trash bins.

To keep getting trash pickup on your scheduled day, households must place a City-provided gray trash bin curbside. The City also notes that recycling and organic waste collection are not affected.

Before July 1: the steps residents need to take

1. Check what bin you’re using now. If yours is an older black bin, you’ll need a City-provided gray bin for trash pickup.
2. If you already have a City gray bin, you may not need to do anything. The City says if you already have a City-provided gray bin, you’re “all set.”
3. If you need a new bin or a change to your service: confirm or adjust your service through the City’s trash service options, or call 858-694-7000 for help.

Renters and property managers: coordinate early

The City directs renters to coordinate with the people who manage the account and service setup. In the City’s guidance, service changes can only be requested by the homeowner, landlord, or property manager.

If you need a City-provided gray container (or need help updating your service), the City says you should contact your landlord or property manager as soon as possible so they can submit a request before July 1, 2026.

Important eligibility rule: what the City will not accept

The City’s FAQ is clear on eligibility. Starting July 1, 2026, only official City-provided gray trash bins are eligible for trash collection.

• Privately purchased gray bins won’t be serviced.
• Black bins won’t be serviced.
• Bins painted gray don’t qualify.

Quick answers (City FAQ)

• When does black-bin collection end? July 1, 2026.
• What bin must be set out? A City-provided gray trash bin placed curbside on your scheduled pickup day.
• Who can request service changes? The homeowner, landlord, or property manager (renters should coordinate with them).
• What if you still have a City-owned black bin? The City encourages you to notify Environmental Services so it can help schedule next steps.

Key date again

July 1, 2026 is the cutoff. If you’re currently relying on an older black bin, make sure you have the required City-provided gray trash bin in place before your next scheduled pickup.

Sources

• City of San Diego (PDF notice): Full transition to gray trash bin service