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Universal Waste Service

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Universal Waste Service Requirement Overview

State law requires all property owners and businesses to have trash, recycling and organics.

Recyclable materials and food or yard waste cannot be placed in the trash. To comply with State law, the County of Santa Cruz adopted the Universal Service Ordinance which requires all developed properties in unincorporated Santa Cruz County to either:

  • Sign up to receive waste collection service with GreenWaste Recovery. Sign up online.
  • Register as a self-hauler with the County of Santa Cruz. Self-haulers are responsible for transporting waste to an approved facility. Sign up as a self hauler by filling out this application. 

Self-haulers must pay for an annual administrative fee and transport separated trash, recycling, and organics to Ben Lomond Transfer Station, the Buena Vista Landfill, or another approved facility. Disposal fees apply. Failure to comply by November 1, 2026, will result in fines for every additional violation noted below: 

Fine for first violation $100
Fine for second violation $200
Fine for third violation and each subsequent violation

$500 per day

 

Forms, Guides & Resources

Mandatory Trash and Recycling Service Flyer
Quick overview of the mandatory trash and recycling service requirement, available in English and Spanish.

Curbside Collection vs. Self-Haul Analysis
Compare the benefits and considerations of curbside collection and self-hauling.

Curbside vs. Self-Haul Cost Comparison
Review sample cost scenarios for curbside collection and self-hauling.

Universal Service Request for Exceptions | Solicitud de Excepciones de Servicio Universal
Use this form if you believe your property qualifies for an exemption from the mandatory trash and recycling service requirement. Utilice este formulario si cree que su propiedad califica para una excepción del requisito obligatorio de servicio de basura y reciclaje.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Universal Service” mean?

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors expanded the Universal Service Ordinance to align with State law. The ordinance requires all businesses and residents in unincorporated Santa Cruz County to sign up for curbside recycling, organics, and trash collection with GreenWaste Recovery or register as a self-hauler with the County.

When did the Universal Service Ordinance take effect?

The local Universal Service Ordinance took effect on January 1, 2022, the same date as the statewide Universal Service mandate. The deadline to comply before fines are assessed is November 1, 2026.

How do I sign up for service with GreenWaste Recovery?

Please call GreenWaste Recovery at (831) 426-2711 or visit GreenWaste Recovery’s Santa Cruz County service page.

What is the unincorporated area of Santa Cruz County?

The Universal Service Ordinance applies to residents and businesses located in Santa Cruz County, outside the city limits of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville.

Why is the County doing this?

California passed Senate Bill 1383 to reduce methane, a short-lived and potent greenhouse gas produced when organic waste, such as food and yard waste, breaks down in landfills.

Beginning January 1, 2022, State law requires California cities and counties to provide universal service for recycling, organics, and trash collection to help meet the State’s climate goals. In most California cities and counties, universal service is already standard practice. Businesses and residents are required to subscribe to recycling and waste service just as they are to water, sewer, and power services.

This practice helps reduce illegal dumping, increase diversion of organics and recyclable materials, and reduce methane production at landfills.

What happens if I don’t comply?

Properties that remain non-compliant after November 1, 2026, are subject to enforcement fines for each additional violation.

Fine for first violation $100
Fine for second violation $200
Fine for third and subsequent violations $500 per day
What is a self-hauler?

A self-hauler is a property owner or occupant who transports their own separated trash, recycling, and organics to the Ben Lomond Transfer Station or Buena Vista Landfill instead of subscribing to curbside collection service. Self-haulers must register with the County and comply with state and local requirements.

Can haul my own trash if I want to?

Yes. Self-hauling is still an option, but you must apply for an exemption and pay an administrative fee. To apply, visit santacruzcountyrecycles.org, click “Universal Service,” print the Form, fill it out, and mail it with your application fee to the address provided on the form.

How much will it cost?

Currently, the lowest rate for weekly curbside service is less than $25 per month. Curbside service includes trash, recycling, and organics collection.

How does this compare to the cost of hauling it myself?

The cost to sign up as a self-hauler is $46 per year. The minimum charge to bring trash to the landfill or transfer station is $27 per visit and is subject to change. Curbside service is almost always less expensive and more convenient.

Are there any other exceptions?

Yes. Exemptions may be available when the property is undeveloped, vacant, or special circumstances exist. To apply, click the Universal Service Request for Exceptions Form, print the form, fill it out, and mail it to the address provided on the form.

I live in a remote area of the County. Does this apply to me?

Yes. The Universal Service Ordinance applies to all areas of Santa Cruz County located outside the city limits of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville.

I don’t think GreenWaste Recovery will service my location. What should I do?

Please call GreenWaste Recovery at (831) 426-2711 to determine if curbside service is available for your location, including properties with narrow roads, steep driveways, or other special conditions.

Where can I get more information?

For more information, you may also call GreenWaste Recovery at (831) 426-2711 or contact Santa Cruz County Recycling and Solid Waste Services at (831) 454-2160.

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