How long can you leave trash bins on the curb after pickup? See Modesto rules
When it comes to keeping Modesto running smoothly, the city has a number of rules for residents to follow, from neighborhood parking to garbage collection.
A Modesto Bee reader recently asked our journalists with Bee Curious, a community-driven series where reporters answer reader questions about the Modesto region: “What is the city’s policy on leaving garbage cans on the street days after scheduled garbage pick up day?”
Here’s what Modesto city officials said about leaving trash bins out on the street after collection:
What time is trash pickup in Modesto?
The Modesto Municipal Code says trash can only be picked up between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. in or near residential areas.
In commercial areas that are not next to residents’ homes, garbage collection is allowed from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Waste collection occurs every day of the week.
When is my weekly garbage collection day?
Trash pickup in Modesto varies depending on where you live.
You are assigned a specific trash hauler — either Bertolotti Disposal Service or Gilton Solid Waste Management — based on the street you live on.
Garbage and organic waste are collected every week.
You can see your scheduled trash pickup day on the city’s website.
In Modesto, recyclable items such as bottles, cans and cardboard are collected every other week.
Homes with even-numbered addresses follow one schedule, while odd-numbered addresses follow another.
To find out when your recycling will be picked up, check the city’s recycling calendars.
When can I put my garbage cans out for collection?
According to the Modesto Solid Waste Division, residents can place their cans out on the street up to 24 hours before their scheduled pickup day.
“It is recommended for cans to be spaced at least one foot apart and at least three feet away from any obstructions, such as mailboxes, cars, and poles,” the city department wrote in a statement to The Bee.
Where can I place my trash containers for collection?
According to the Modesto Municipal Code, trash containers must be placed in front of, next to or behind the property where the waste was generated.
“Containers should not be placed in front of a neighbor’s property, or such other locations unless approved by the Public Works Director,” the city wrote. “Placing containers in front of a neighbor’s property may result in service issues.”
How long can I leave my trash bins out on street after pickup?
You can only put your trash bins out 24 hours before pickup, on pickup day and 24 hours after, according to the Modesto Municipal Code.
“When not out for collection, containers should be screened from public view, per Modesto Municipal Code Title 5, Chapter 5, Section 121,” the city wrote.
Have a question about life in Modesto?
Here’s how to submit your question to The Bee:
You can submit questions directly to our reporters by emailing me directly at arodriguez@modbee.com, our service journalism desk servicejournalists@modbee.com, or by filling out the form below.
