San Diego’s $523 Trash Fee Sparks Outrage and Legal Fight

For the first time in over a century, San Diego single-family homeowners are about to get hit with a controversial $523 trash fee, and the legal drama is heating up fast.

The city’s new ordinance, passed by a 6-3 City Council vote, will begin charging residents $43.60 per month starting July 1, 2025, unless a lawsuit filed in June by attorney Michael Aguirre manages to stop it in its tracks. The fee marks a dramatic shift away from the 1919-era People’s Ordinance that made trash pickup free for over 100 years.

The lawsuit argues that this new trash fee violates Proposition 218, a state law that demands voter approval before any new fees or taxes are introduced. Aguirre claims the city is charging homeowners more than the actual cost of the service, which he says is illegal under state law. “This trash tax violates Proposition 218,” Aguirre said, pointing out that funds should only be used for trash collection and that the rates must be fair and reasonable.

The city maintains that the $523.20 annual fee is the result of a year-long cost analysis and community outreach. It claims the money is solely meant to recover costs associated with trash and recycling services, which have long been funded through the city’s General Fund. Officials argue this new structure will free up more resources for other services like police, libraries, parks, and road repairs.

Currently, San Diego is one of the few major California cities that doesn’t charge residents directly for trash pickup. More than 200,000 single-family homes get city service, while apartment buildings already pay private haulers. Under the new pricing, homeowners can choose from different bin sizes, $36.72 for a 35-gallon bin, $42.88 for a 65-gallon bin, or $47.59 for a 95-gallon bin. Each household will also receive a blue recycling bin and green organic waste bin at no extra cost. Replacement bins will be free, and expanded services like more frequent bulky item pickups are planned for 2027.

Homeowner David Weil from Tierrasanta said what many residents are thinking: “We believe that we already pay for the trash service through our taxes, so we shouldn’t have to pay more.” He joined others in supporting the lawsuit, even though the ordinance has already passed. “We can’t go backwards,” he added, “but we’re still opposed.”

Despite growing backlash, the city hasn’t publicly commented on the lawsuit. But if the court sides with Aguirre, San Diego’s trash fee rollout could be paused or even scrapped entirely. Until then, it’s set to kick in next week, with fees added directly to property tax bills.

San Diego officials say they’re working to upgrade outdated trash infrastructure too, most city bins are nearly 20 years old, and they plan to use new tracking and scanning technology to improve customer service. Compared to other California cities, San Diego’s trash fee still ranks among the lowest. Sacramento charges $57.79 per month, Long Beach $67.63, and cities like Oakland and San Jose top $160.

Voters like Maggie Vinson in Chula Vista are watching closely, not just for the trash fee outcome but for broader political decisions. “I want someone in office who has common sense,” she told local news. As it stands, ballots have been mailed to over 37,000 registered voters in District One, with a reported turnout of just 18% so far.

Unless a judge steps in, San Diego’s new trash fee is just days away from becoming a financial reality, and a political flashpoint, for homeowners citywide.

Leo Cruz brings sharp insights into the world of politics, offering balanced reporting and analysis on the latest policies, elections, and global political events. With years of experience covering campaigns and interviewing world leaders, Leo ensures readers are always informed and engaged.