State law now requires local jurisdictions to provide mandatory trash, recycling, and organic waste services to every resident and business within its area boundaries. It is against State law to put recycling or organic materials (food and yard waste) in the garbage. To comply with State law, the County of Santa Cruz passed its Universal Service Ordinance to provide source separated waste services throughout the unincorporated County. All residents and businesses must either subscribe to curbside service with a County approved waste hauler or sign up with the County as a self-hauler. County self-haulers must pay an annual administrative fee and transport their source separated waste to either Ben Lomond Transfer Station in north county or to Buena Vista Waste Facility in south county. Waste disposal fees apply and fines may be levied for non-compliance with State law.
Mandatory Trash and Recycling Service Flyer - “How To” summary in English & Espanol.
Universal Service Ordinance - Details on Santa Cruz County Universal Waste Service.
Universal Service FAQs - Answers to frequently asked questions on Universal Waste Service.
Curbside Collection vs. Self-Haul Analysis - Pros and cons of curbside collection and self-hauling.
Curbside vs. Self-Haul Cost Comparison - Sample costs of curbside collection and self-hauling.
Universal Service Self-Haul Application Form - Complete this form to sign up as a County self-hauler.
Formulario de Servicio Universal - Solicitud para auto - transporte (acarreo propio de desechos - self-haulers) - complete este formulario para inscribirse como un auto-transportista (acarreo propio de desechos - self-haulers).
Universal Service Request for Exceptions - Complete this form if you believe your property qualifies for an exemption from State mandated Universal Waste Service.
Solicitud de Excepciones de Servicio Universal - complete este formulario si cree que su propiedad califica para una excepcion del Servicio Universal de Residuos exigido por el Estado.