Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority

green waste garbage waste recycling home

Click here for FAQs on Green Waste FAQ


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Do I have to use the yard clippings cart?

In order to have yard clippings recycled you must use the yard clippings cart provided by VWM.  If you choose not to use this cart, there is no reduction in your garbage rate.


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What if I want to put my yard trimmings in plastic bags instead and place them at the curb or street side?

Yard trimmings cannot be put into plastic or paper bags because the processing facility where the material will be composted or shredded is not able to accept them.


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What types of yard clippings material are acceptable in the program?

Grass, tree trimmings, prunings, leaves, fruits and vegetables are acceptable in the yard clippings program.


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I have a gardener who takes away all of my yard trimmings. Do I have to pay for yard clippings service?

Yes. The only exemption for yard clippings is if you live in a townhouse or condominium complex that does not generate any yard trimmings. Have your gardener place trimmings in your yard waste container and reduce gardening costs.


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How much lower is the monthly rate without yard clippings service?

For rates, please go to the CCCSWA service area and corresponding rates website page.


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What size is the yard clippings cart?

The yard clippings cart is 64-gallons in size, equivalent to two (2) regular cans.


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Can I have a different size yard clippings cart?

Yes, a 96-gallon yard clippings cart is available for an additional charge.

Please go to the CCCSWA service area and corresponding rates website page.


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I home compost. Do I have to pay for yard clippings service?

Yes, thank you for home composting, but the yard clippings service is part of your basic rate. However, you may be eligible for a $1.50 per month rate reduction for certified home composting systems. Complete a Backyard Compost Certification Application on-line or call the Home Composting Hotline at 925-906-1801 x306 to request a Certification Application.


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Can I set out extra yard clippings?

You may subscribe to an extra 64-gallon yard clippings cart for an additional costs per month. Or you may exchange your 64-gallon yard clippings cart for a larger 96-gallon yard clippings cart for an additional charge.

OR you can schedule a recycling-only special cleanup (paper or yard clippings) free of charge. These recycling cleanups are in addition to the three provided by Allied Waste Services. You must schedule this recyclables-only cleanup in advance by calling VWM at 935-8900. The materials will need to be boxed, paper bagged or bundled (no plastic bags) upto 2 cubic yards per collection.


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I need to replace my current food scraps bucket, how do I get a new one?

If you live in Walnut Creek, Orinda, Lafayette or Moraga and participate in the food scraps program, you can contact Waste Management at (925)935-8900 and request a new bucket. They will deliver it to you on your next regular day pickup OR you can go to the Walnut Creek Recycling Center, located at 480 Lawrence Way in Walnut Creek to pick one up. 


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What items are not acceptable in the yard clippings program?

If you live in Danville, and unincorporated Contra Costa County, these items are unacceptable which include palm leaves and cactus because they are too succulent, treated or painted wood, diseased plants, food waste such as meat and dairy products, lumber, ashes, manure and pet waste, poison oak clippings, plastic or paper bags, and garbage of any kind.

 

If you live in Walnut Creek, Orinda, Lafayette, and Moraga, these items are unacceptable which include palm leaves and cactus because they are too succulent, treated or painted wood, diseased plants, lumber, ashes, manure and pet waste, poison oak clippings, plastic or paper bags, and garbage of any kind. You CAN ADD food waste such as meat and dairy products to your green waste.