A top-down flatlay of clean, dry cardboard boxes and aluminum cans sorted on a light wooden table, bright natural daylight, 35mm lens.
A top-down flatlay of clean, dry cardboard boxes and aluminum cans sorted on a light wooden table, bright natural daylight, 35mm lens.
Find CRV Centers
State Sorting Laws

California Recycling Mandates

Navigate state-specific sorting policies with clarity. From organic waste collection to container redemption, here is how California households comply with environmental laws.

A bright, natural daylight shot of a child placing vegetable scraps into a small green kitchen compost bin on a clean kitchen counter.
A bright, natural daylight shot of a child placing vegetable scraps into a small green kitchen compost bin on a clean kitchen counter.
SB 1383 Mandate

Mandatory Organic Waste Sorting

California law requires all residents and businesses to divert organic materials from landfills. Food scraps, yard trimmings, and food-soiled paper must be placed in green compost bins to prevent methane emissions.

By sorting your morning coffee grounds and vegetable peels, you directly reduce landfill gases. Check with your local waste hauler for specific kitchen pail guidelines.

View Redemption Map
Cash for Containers

California Refund Value Basics

Earning your CRV refund keeps valuable materials out of local landfills. Most beverage containers made of aluminum, glass, plastic, or bi-metal are eligible for redemption.

Redemption Rates

Eligible Materials

Eligible beverage containers under 24 ounces are worth 5 cents, while containers 24 ounces or larger redeem for 10 cents at certified centers.

Look for the CRV message on soda cans, beer bottles, water containers, and juice jugs. Always rinse containers before bringing them to a local redemption site.

A close-up of a clean plastic container showing a clear recycling symbol with a number inside, bright natural daylight, 35mm lens.
A close-up of a clean plastic container showing a clear recycling symbol with a number inside, bright natural daylight, 35mm lens.
Verify Your Materials
SB 343 Standards

The Truth in Labeling Law

California strictly regulates the use of the chasing arrows symbol. Under SB 343, manufacturers cannot label packaging as recyclable unless it is regularly collected and processed locally.

This prevents deceptive marketing and reduces contamination. Before throwing items into the blue bin, verify that the material is accepted by your municipality.