Introduction
Waste management is a critical aspect of maintaining a clean and sustainable environment. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of waste disposal and recycling regulations for homeowners in Orinda, California, drawing upon official sources and relevant documents.
City of Orinda and Waste Management Services
The City of Orinda’s official website does not have a dedicated section for waste management and recycling. However, the website acknowledges this and provides links to important resources, including:
- Republic Services: This is the primary waste management service provider for Orinda residents, responsible for garbage collection, recycling, and landfill services.
- RecycleSmart: This non-profit agency, also known as the Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority, offers resources and programs to help residents reduce waste and recycle effectively.
Contacting Waste Management Services
While the City of Orinda does not have a specific waste management department, residents can contact the following service providers for assistance:
- Republic Services: For service requests, extra on-call services, billing inquiries, vacation holds, and to start or stop service, call Republic Services at 925-685-4711.
- RecycleSmart: For unresolved concerns or general questions, contact RecycleSmart at authority@recyclesmart.org or call 925-906-1801.
Waste Management Regulations for Orinda Homeowners
Although the City of Orinda’s website does not explicitly outline all waste management regulations for homeowners, here’s a summary of key regulations and guidelines:
Recycling and Organics Collection
Orinda residents are provided with separate carts for recycling and organic waste. Proper sorting and disposal are crucial, and RecycleSmart conducts route audits to monitor compliance and ensure proper waste diversion.
Recycling (Blue Cart/Bin):
- Accepted materials: Cardboard, paper, small household metals and cans, plastic containers (#1-7), and glass containers.
- Important guidelines:
- Empty, clean, and dry all containers before placing them in the blue bin.
- Do not bag recyclables; place them loose in the cart or use a clear bag only.
Organics (Green Cart):
- Accepted materials: Food scraps, yard waste, and non-hazardous plant debris.
- Important guidelines:
- No plastic bags are allowed in the green cart.
- Remove all food packaging and place it in the landfill bin, including plastic-coated paper.
- Free kitchen pail: Residents can request a free 3-gallon kitchen food scrap pail from Republic Services once every two years.
By actively participating in the organics recycling program, Orinda homeowners contribute to reducing organic waste in landfills and creating valuable compost, which benefits the environment and supports sustainable gardening practices.
Waste Management Plan (WMP)
For construction and demolition projects meeting specific thresholds (e.g., residential additions affecting 1,000 square feet or more), homeowners are required to complete a Waste Management Plan (WMP). This plan must demonstrate that at least 65% of the construction debris is recycled.
Key Requirements:
- Submit the WMP during the building permit application process.
- Adhere to the guidelines outlined in the City of Orinda Municipal Code §15.109.
- Provide recycling receipts from approved facilities to demonstrate compliance.
- Failure to comply with the WMP requirements can result in a $1,000 citation.
The 65% diversion rate for construction debris is a crucial aspect of Orinda’s waste management regulations. By adhering to the WMP guidelines, homeowners contribute to minimizing waste and promoting resource recovery during construction projects.
Hazardous Waste Disposal
Hazardous waste, such as cooking oil, batteries, and cleaners, should not be disposed of in regular trash or recycling bins.
Disposal Options:
- Central Contra Costa Sanitary District: Operates a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility in Martinez where residents can safely dispose of hazardous materials.
Medical Sharps and Medications Disposal
Residents can dispose of medical sharps (needles) and unused medications for free at the Orinda Police Department. Specific guidelines for disposal are available on the City of Orinda’s website.
Recycling Unusual Items
For information on recycling unusual items, contact the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District at (800) 646-1431 or visit their website at www.centralsan.org.
Special Assistance for Waste Collection
Residents with physical difficulties taking their carts to the curb can request assistance. Contact Valley Waste Management at (925) 935-8900 and provide a doctor’s note to arrange for this service.
Contra Costa County Waste Management Regulations
Orinda is located within Contra Costa County, and some county-level waste management regulations also apply to homeowners. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development oversees waste management programs and promotes waste reduction and recycling.
Key Regulations and Services:
- Mandatory Commercial Recycling Requirements: California law mandates that businesses and multi-family residences arrange for recycling and organics collection services.
- SB 1383: Organic Waste and Edible Food Recovery Requirements: Senate Bill 1383 aims to reduce organic waste disposal in landfills by setting targets for organic waste reduction and requiring residents and businesses to participate in organic waste recycling programs.
- Bulky Item Pick-Up: The county offers on-call bulky item pick-up services for residents.
- Mattress Drop-Off: Free mattress drop-off locations are available throughout the county.
- Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Disposal: The county provides resources for safe disposal of household hazardous waste.
