The most common concerns include determining bin sizes, understanding costs, and navigating the online registration system.

SAN DIEGO — Nearly two weeks after San Diego launched its Residential Waste Collection Services portal, residents continue flooding city offices and newsrooms with questions about the mandatory signup process.

The most common concerns include determining bin sizes, understanding costs, and navigating the online registration system, according to Environmental Services Assistant Director Jeremy Bauer.

“Can I get my smaller container now?” and “Can I keep my old container?” are among the frequent questions fielded daily by city staff, Bauer said.


Portal access requires specific information

Many residents have attempted to log into the new portal only to discover they lack the required information. The city began sending out mailers last week, meaning some residents may wait until the month’s end to receive theirs.

The yellow section of the mailer contains an Assessor Parcel Number (APN) — the same number found on tax bills — and a unique code generated specifically for the portal. Both are required to access wasteportal.sandiego.gov.


Bin selection and pricing

After creating accounts and signing up for notifications, residents must select trash bin sizes. Bauer recommends choosing current container sizes if they meet household needs. Many households use the 95-gallon container, and single and elderly households use smaller containers. 

Residents unsure of their current bin size can check labels printed on container lids. The 95-gallon and 65-gallon containers appear similar but are clearly marked.

Monthly rates depend entirely on trash bin size, not recycling container choice. In the first year, a 35-gallon trash bin costs $32.82 monthly, 65-gallon containers run $38.94, and 95-gallon bins cost $43.60.

However, residents selecting smaller containers for reasons unrelated to recycling quantity will be asked to confirm they understand the standard size is 95 gallons. If choosing a 65-gallon or 35-gallon container for personal reasons, the rate remains based on the size of the trash container, not the recycling size. 

The City says it is working on a financial assistance program for those who qualify. The city council approved $3 million from the general fund to be used to assist the program and resident and voluntarily donate in the portal as well. 

Residents must make selections by Sept. 30. Those who don’t register will automatically receive new 95-gallon trash and recycling containers.

All residents will see a $523.20 charge on October tax bills for the first year. Credits or additional charges for different container sizes won’t appear until the fall 2026 tax bills.


Container replacement process

Residents cannot keep current containers, even if in good condition. The city will collect and shred existing bins, recycling the material for new containers.

All bins except newer green organics containers will be replaced. New trash bins will be gray, and recycling containers will be lighter blue. Container delivery begins in October and will take several months citywide.

Current containers that are lost or damaged can be replaced at no cost before the transition.


Alternative registration options

Residents uncomfortable with online registration can call customer service at 858-694-7000 to register by phone. The city also set up an FAQ. 

The city continues working to address resident concerns as the Sept. 30 deadline approaches.Â