San Diego Residents Can Apply for Trash and Recycling Fee Assistance

January 28, 2026

The City of San Diego's Environmental Services Department is launching a financial assistance program on January 22nd to help eligible residents pay their annual trash and recycling fees. Homeowners who meet income requirements or participate in certain public assistance programs can receive credits of approximately $260, which covers half of their annual service fee. The program has $3 million in funding from the city budget and customer donations, with assistance distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to around 7,000 expected applicants.

Who is affected

City of San Diego Environmental Services Department customers who own and live in their homes as primary residences
Homeowners with household income at or below 60% of California's State Median Income
Participants in Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs, or LIHEAP programs
Property owners enrolled in the County's property tax payment plan
Approximately 7,000 expected customers to receive assistance

What action is being taken

The City of San Diego Environmental Services Department is opening applications for financial assistance starting Thursday, January 22
In-person assistance is being offered for residents needing help completing applications
MAAC is partnering with the city to administer the program

Why it matters

This program provides crucial financial relief to low-income San Diego homeowners by reducing their trash and recycling service costs by approximately half (around $260). The assistance helps ensure that essential waste management services remain affordable for qualifying residents, particularly those already enrolled in other public assistance programs or facing economic hardship.

What's next

Applications are accepted through April as funding allows
Approved applicants will receive a credit of about $260 covering half the annual fee
Some property owners enrolled in the County's property tax payment plan may receive full coverage
Assistance is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint