Solid Waste Services Best Practices

The City of Santa Maria Utilities Department is committed to providing customers with the most responsive, efficient, and effective service.  To help us serve you better, please: 

• Set out containers by 6:00 a.m. on your collection day. Place them at the curb at least five feet apart and away from vehicles or other obstructions. 

• Ensure that commercial dumpsters are accessible. If necessary, move them away from vehicles or other objects before your scheduled service. 

• Keep lids closed to help prevent spills, especially on windy days. 

• Do not overfill containers. Overpacked bins may not empty properly during service. 

• Sort waste correctly. Separate trash, recyclables, and organics into the proper containers. Contaminated bins will not be serviced and may incur additional charges.  

• Plastic bags, including compostable bags, belong in the trash. Plastic bags of any kind are not accepted in the Recycling or Organics containers. 

Holiday Closures 

Solid waste service will not operate on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.  

When a holiday occurs on a weekday, residential collection service is delayed by one day for the remainder of that week. 

Container Repairs or Replacements 

If your waste containers require repair or replacement, call (805) 925-0951 ext. 7270 during business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.