Green Waste FAQs

(green cart)

What size is the yard clippings cart?

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

Can I set out extra yard clippings?

You may subscribe to an extra 64-gallon yard clippings cart for an additional $5.40 per month. Or you may exchange your 64-gallon yard clippings cart for a larger 96-gallon yard clippings cart for an additional $2.74 per month. 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 PHBD. 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.

Can I have a different size yard clippings cart?

Yes, as of January 1, 1999, a 96-gallon yard clippings cart is available for an additional $2.53 per month.

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.

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.

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.

What items are not acceptable in the yard clippings program?

Unacceptable items 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.

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 925-906-1806 to request a Certification Application. Separate collection and composting will help your city/county meet its state-mandated waste diversion goals by 25% by the end of 1995 and 50% by the year 2000 and beyond.

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.

I live in a townhouse complex. I have no backyard and a gardening service takes care of the common areas. Do I have to pay for the yard clippings service?

No. If you live in a townhouse or condominium complex that does not generate any yard trimmings, you should be billed at reduced rate. Check the rates page for your community to find the townhouse (multi-family) rate in your area.

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.