San Diego, January 24, 2026
San Diego launches a program to assist residents struggling with trash and recycling fees. The initiative allows eligible homeowners to apply for financial aid through the Environmental Services Department, helping to offset the newly implemented Solid Waste Management Fee that affects property tax bills.
San Diego Introduces Financial Assistance for Trash and Recycling Fees
San Diego residents facing challenges in paying for trash and recycling services can now apply for financial assistance through the city’s Environmental Services Department (ESD). This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of the new Solid Waste Management Fee, which began in July 2025. The fee, ranging from $32.82 to $43.60 per month, is included in property tax bills and funds various solid waste management services.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for assistance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Own and reside in the property as a primary residence.
- The property must be eligible to receive trash and recycling collection from the City of San Diego.
- Household income is at or below 60% of California’s State Median Income, or at least one household member is enrolled in assistance programs such as Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs, or the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Application Process
Applications are accepted online, with in-person assistance available for those needing help with the application process. The program is administered by the Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty of San Diego County (MAAC) and is funded by $3 million from the City’s fiscal year 2026 budget, along with over $60,000 in donations from City customers. Approximately 7,000 customers are expected to be admitted into the program, with applications reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Program Benefits
Approved applicants may receive a credit toward half of the annual trash and recycling fee, approximately $260 per year. Additional assistance is available for property owners who meet the primary eligibility requirements and are currently enrolled in the County of San Diego’s property tax payment plan. These qualifying property owners may receive the full trash and recycling fee amount.
Background
The Solid Waste Management Fee was implemented to fund various solid waste management services and operational expenses, including weekly recycling collection, curbside bulky item pickup, waste collection equipment and fleet replacement, and additional staffing. The fee became effective on July 1, 2025, and is collected through the County tax roll.
Contact Information
For more information or assistance with the application process, contact MAAC at:
- Phone: 619.946.4419
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: maacproject.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the financial assistance program?
To qualify, applicants must own and reside in the property as a primary residence, the property must be eligible to receive trash and recycling collection from the City of San Diego, and household income is at or below 60% of California’s State Median Income, or at least one household member is enrolled in assistance programs such as Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs, or the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
How can I apply for the financial assistance program?
Applications are accepted online, with in-person assistance available for those needing help with the application process. The program is administered by the Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty of San Diego County (MAAC).
What benefits does the program offer?
Approved applicants may receive a credit toward half of the annual trash and recycling fee, approximately $260 per year. Additional assistance is available for property owners who meet the primary eligibility requirements and are currently enrolled in the County of San Diego’s property tax payment plan, potentially receiving the full trash and recycling fee amount.
What is the Solid Waste Management Fee?
The Solid Waste Management Fee was implemented to fund various solid waste management services and operational expenses, including weekly recycling collection, curbside bulky item pickup, waste collection equipment and fleet replacement, and additional staffing. The fee became effective on July 1, 2025, and is collected through the County tax roll.
How can I contact MAAC for more information?
For more information or assistance with the application process, contact MAAC at: Phone: 619.946.4419, Email: [email protected], Website: maacproject.org
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Solid Waste Management Fee Financial Assistance Program |
| Administered By | Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty of San Diego County (MAAC) |
| Funding Sources | $3 million from the City’s fiscal year 2026 budget and over $60,000 in donations from City customers |
| Expected Number of Applicants | Approximately 7,000 customers |
| Application Deadline | Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis through April, as long as funding remains available |
| Program Benefits | Credit toward half of the annual trash and recycling fee (approximately $260 per year); full fee coverage for eligible property owners enrolled in the County’s property tax payment plan |
| Contact Information | Phone: 619.946.4419, Email: [email protected], Website: maacproject.org |
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