FAQs • Eureka, CA • CivicEngage

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Why does Eureka have mandatory waste and recycling service?: Waste and recycling must be regulated to the extent necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public, to conserve disposal capacity, to meet state laws and to ensure cost effective public service.

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Recycler's Exclusion Program

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1. Did I miss the exemption period if I missed the application due date?: No, we accept applications year-round.

2. Does my exemption last forever?: No, it expires June of every year and requires a new affidavit to be submitted.

3. Does my exemption expire a year after it is approved?: Please note the exemption period is always July 1^st through June 30^th of the following year. Therefore, no matter what month you submit the exemption, it always expires on June 30^th. Every household seeking an exemption must submit a new form prior to June 1^st every year to prevent a lapse in exemption.

4. Can I use the affidavit from a previous year and change the date range myself?: No. The affidavit is a legally binding document enforceable by the Eureka Municipal Code. Eureka Community Services will provide a new and updated form each exemption year which is subject to modifications to improve and streamline the program.

5. Can I use this program if my property is vacant?: No, Please contact Recology to place your service on hold due to vacancy.

6. I do not use my Recology bins and I am not exempt. Can I receive a refund or prorate?: No. Enforceable by Eureka Municipal Code, unless exempt through this program, every household in Eureka has mandated curbside waste and recycling service by Recology. Once approved for exemption, billing will cease for the exemption period.

7. Can I be exempt but still have a green waste bin?: No, if you apply for exemption, you are opting out of any service with Recology.

8. I generate a lot of waste and it is cheaper to self-haul it than pay Recology. Can I be exempt?: No. This exemption program is specifically for households who generate such a small amount of waste that weekly curbside service is unnecessary and in turn are contributing to positive waste diversion efforts for our community. If you generate a significant amount of solid waste per week, you are not eligible for an exemption.

9. Why does Eureka have mandatory waste and recycling service?: Waste and recycling must be regulated to the extent necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public, to conserve disposal capacity, to meet state laws and to ensure cost effective public service.

10. My property was exempt and then a tenant moved in and set up service. After they move out, does my exemption resume?: No, the exemption is voided as soon as service is reinstated.