Missed Waste Collection
Call Recology at (408)725-4020 (Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or leave a message in their voicemail. Before you call, please read below for possible reasons that your carts were not collected.
1. Truck Breakdown or Driver Error
Missed collections due to driver error or truck breakdown will be collected the same day if the drivers are still on route, or the next business day. For Friday routes, leave your cart out on Saturday and Monday until it is collected. Please call Recology to confirm this is the reason.
2. Non-Collection Notice
Contaminated Containers
Recycling and compost carts will not be collected if the carts are "contaminated" with trash or other non-recyclables. For example, plastic bags and wrap, styrofoam and food waste are not accepted for recycling; and palm fronds, plant pots and dirt are not accepted for compost. The driver will leave a notice on the cart to advise you of the problem and how to correct it.
If you get a notice, please remove the contaminants and call Recology Cupertino to arrange another collection (fees may apply). If the contamination is not removed, the cart may be collected as trash and a charge will appear on your utility bill.
For a list of what items are accepted for recycling, please visit What's Recyclable.
Overflowing Containers
Residential trash carts will not be collected if they are overflowing or if there are extra bags on top of or next to the cart. If you occasionally have extra trash, please purchase an extra trash sticker from Recology. If you often have more trash than will fit in the cart, please contact Recology to increase your trash service.
Residential recycling or yard waste carts will not be collected if they are overflowing. The lids help to direct the flow of the recycling into the split-truck and prevent litter from developing.
Commercial or Apartment Dumpsters will not be collected if they are overflowing or blocked by trash bags or parked cars. Please contact Recology Cupertino (408) 725-40230 to arrange for special collection of extra materials and/or increase trash service.
3. Set-out Error
Be sure to set out carts away from parked cars, overhanging trees, and basketball hoops.
Set out carts no later than 7 a.m. no matter what time the driver usually comes because traffic, route changes, or mechanical issues can affect when the driver reaches your home.
If your cart is set out by 7 a.m. and was accessible, please call Recology at (408) 725-4020 to report a missed collection.