Read our COVID-19 Statement

Gardena RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Got a Warning?

We routinely check to see that our collection service runs smoothly. Part of that includes checking to see if there are issues that can cause service disruptions.

If you received a warning notice, here’s what to do and possible reasons why you received the warning:

Call (888) 467-7600 to schedule a bulky item pickup. You will be asked to describe the items that will be left on the curb for pickup.  You can call up to (7) days before your regular trash day to schedule. 

Pickups are the same day as your trash/recycling/organics service. Requests need to be called in by noon the day before your regular service (i.e., by noon Tuesday for Wednesday pickup).

Gardena residents get one free pickup per quarter (Jan-Mar; Apr-Jun; Jul-Sep; Oct-Dec), limited to two (2) items, 3 cubic yards, or 300lb. per pickup. You can call up to (7) days before your regular trash day to schedule.

For some reason, the container was blocked at time of service or was placed in a location deemed unsafe for collection by our staff. Please be sure your containers are located away from any obstructions so that the collection arm can operate smoothly or the container can be serviced.

For whatever reason, the service location was closed or locked when our crew arrived and we could not service your container(s).  If you need service before your next scheduled service day, call our office to schedule a make-up (additional charges may apply). Otherwise, we will attempt to service your container(s) on your next scheduled day of service.

Our collection trucks are designed to empty carts/bins only and cannot pick up any other material that is not in a container. Be sure the lids are closed to reduce the likelihood of material toppling over or blowing out and be sure that all your trash, recycling, and organics are placed inside the correct container.

Scavengers may be rummaging through your containers looking for recyclables. When they do, sometimes they make a mess. Be sure to secure your containers so opportunities are limited.  Scavenging in Gardena is illegal and should be reported to the Gardena Police Department at (310) 323-7911.

For whatever reason, our driver didn’t see one or more of your containers. For cart service, be sure that your carts are located curbside by 7:00am on your regularly scheduled service day .  For bin service, make sure they can be easily seen for servicing.  If you need service before your next scheduled service day, call our office to schedule a make-up (additional charges may apply). Otherwise, we will attempt to service your containers on your next scheduled day of service.

The bulky items that you requested be collected were not curbside when our driver arrived. This could be due to scavenging or our driver arrived before your items were set out. If you still need your items picked up, call for a make-up collection.

The maximum weight for your container has been exceeded.  You will need to take out some material and either wait until your next service day or call (888) 467-7600 to schedule a make-up collection:

  • 64 gal:  80lbs
  • 96 gal: 100lbs

Lids should stay closed to prevent litter from blowing into the street or its contents getting wet.

If your containers are routinely overweight or overheight, you will need to order additional containers.

For Gardena residents, additional recycling and organics carts are free.  There is a monthly charge for extra trash.

In order for us to collect tree trimmings that don’t fit in your organics container, it needs to be bundled. Tie it up with twine and call (888) 467-7600 to schedule a bulky item pick-up.

Tree trunks or stumps that are over six (6) feet in length or weigh over 300 pounds cannot be collected. Please chop into smaller pieces and call (888) 467-7600 to re-schedule your pick-up.  If you can’t make it any smaller, then you’ll need to order a commercial bin and pay for that one-time service.

If you are using a non-Waste Resources container, you need to call (888) 467-7600 to get the correct container.

There are many reasons why containers get damaged. Call (888) 467-7600 to get a new one. If the damage is due to normal wear and tear, we’ll replace it for free.  If not, you will be charged a replacement fee.

Call the LA County HHW hotline at (888) CLEAN-LA or click here for a schedule of upcoming HHW collection events.

NO paint, oil, antifreeze, solvents, pool chemical, pesticides, batteries, thermostats, fluorescent light bulbs or tubes, medicines, or electronics can be placed in your containers.  These must be handled separately.

The City of Los Angeles operates permanent weekend facilities that can be used by all residents of LA County. The two closest facilities are:

Playa del Rey: HYPERION TREATMENT PLANT
7660 West Imperial Highway, Gate B; Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Hours of Operation: Saturdays and Sundays; 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Click here for map

San Pedro: GAFFEY STREET
1400 N. Gaffey St.; San Pedro, CA 90731
Hours of Operation: Saturdays and Sundays; 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Click here for map

Only food scraps, food-soiled paper, grass, leaves, flowers, and branches less than three (3) inches thick can be placed in your green container. You will need to take out all other material in order for this to be collected. For a detailed list, click here or visit our SB1383 page.

If you need additional containers to accommodate trash, recyclables, or organics, call (888) 467-7600 to order.

See the warning notice schedule below.  Your container will not be collected after the third (3rd) violation for organics contamination.

Only clean paper, cardboard, cartons, glass, metal, and plastic containers can be placed in your blue container. You will need to take out all other material in order for this container to be collected. For a detailed list, click here or visit our SB1383 page.

If you need additional containers to accommodate trash, recyclables, or organics, call (888) 467-7600 to order.

See the warning notice schedule below.  Your container will not be collected after the third (3rd) violation for recycling contamination.

This violation is not applicable for residential customers.

State laws require recyclables and organics to be recycled. There was enough material seen in your container to qualify for a separate recycling and/or organics service. Call (888) 467-7600 to set up the right program for you.

See the warning notice schedule below.  You will be charged an extra processing fee for WR to remove the recyclables/organics from your containers after the 3rd violation.

Warning Notice Schedule

The following procedures for non-compliance apply for warning #10-12:

Scroll to Top

Get the Latest Updates

Never miss another pickup! Stay up to date on any changes to your local pickup schedule, holiday closures, and more.