San Diego Trash Collection Changes Coming Summer 2025

San Diego is set to implement significant changes to its trash collection services following the passage of Measure B in 2022. While these changes are aimed at improving efficiency, reducing environmental impact, ensuring a cleaner city, and more fairly distributing the cost of trash collection, they will also help address the City’s deep budget deficit.

Through Measure B, existing customers in single family homes and townhomes/multiple units who currently receive “free” trash and recycling hauling will see a new monthly charge, currently estimated at $53, added to their property tax bills starting in July. These fees are planned to increase to $63 by 2028 and will eventually cover increasing to weekly recycling pickup as well as bulky-item pickup.

The $53 monthly fee will be among the highest rates in Southern California for trash collection, compared to nearby residential monthly bills of $27.33 in La Mesa, $36.80 in Chula Vista, and $36.80 in Carlsbad. Neighboring cities hire outside companies for trash and recycling, while San Diego employs City staff and uses City equipment. Final details are pending a vote by City Council in June after hearings by the Environmental Committee in April. If 50% of the affected ratepayers file a protest under Prop. 218, the Majority Protest act, it can’t be enacted.

A virtual “Open House” for San Diego residents will be hosted via Zoom on April 4 at 10am. Visit the UH Community Calendar for details on how to join (www.uhsd.org/calendar). Additional information from the SD Environmental Services Department can be found at cleangreensd.org.