City of San Diego Trash Study

Financial Assistance Program

The Environmental Services Department (ESD) is actively working to establish a financial assistance program to support residents in need. ESD has requested funding from the General Fund and is also exploring alternative funding sources. This includes the potential for customers to voluntarily contribute additional funds beyond the standard fee schedule to help expand assistance efforts.

The City of San Diego's Environmental Services Department (ESD) has partnered with the Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty of San Diego County, Inc. (MAAC) to launch a financial assistance program designed to assist property owners subject to the Solid Waste Management Fee who demonstrate financial need, including households that meet income-based eligibility criteria or participate in qualifying assistance programs.

To receive assistance, a property owner must apply for the program and receive approval. Assistance requires an application and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to available funding.

MAAC will offer optional, in-person clinics to assist property owners with submitting their applications. For dates and locations of these events, more information about the program—including eligibility requirements—or to access the application, please visit the MAAC website.

Financial Assistance Program Resources

• Mailer
• Community Presentation

Trash Service Rollout Frequently Asked Questions

The Environmental Services Department often updates Frequently Asked Questions. More information can be found at the City's Frequently Asked Questions page.

Solid Waste Management Fee Resources

• June 2025 Council Presentation - Adoption of Solid Waste Management Fee
• June 2025 - Cost of Service Study Report
• IBA Review of Cost of Service Study
• October 2024 - Operational Efficiency Analysis

Container Delivery Flyer

• English
• Spanish