The Marine debris reduction ordinance is in full effect

​As of January 1, 2025, the Marine Debris Reduction ordinance is in full effect. Oceanside businesses are prohibited from distributing single-use carryout bags and are required to charge at least 10 cents for reusable or recyclable bags. This builds upon the July 1, 2024 implementation that saw the prohibition of the distribution of polystyrene foam products and food service ware.  Businesses are also required to post educational materials about the Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance requirements for at least one year from the effective date of each prohibition. The Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance promotes the use of more sustainable alternatives that are compostable, recyclable, or reusable.

Utilize Sustainable Alternatives
Food service ware made of compostable and biodegradable plastic, sugarcane, bagasse, bamboo, molded fiber, and other similar materials are not preferred alternatives for polystyrene foam products. These materials are not recyclable; must be placed in the trash; are not accepted in local recycling or food scraps programs; and do not help the City of Oceanside reach its zero waste goals. Instead opt for eco-friendly alternatives, such as reusable water bottles, storage containers and grocery bags. Preferred eco-friendly materials can consist of the following:

• Ceramics
• Glass
• Aluminum
• Rigid, non-foam plastics
• Paper

To report a non-compliant business, contact Oceanside Customer Care at 760-435-4500 or customercare@oceansideca.org

Services for Oceanside ResidentsDonation and Landfill Weeks
Do you have gently used items that are ready for a new life? FREE donation pickups are available twice a year from 4/7-4/18 and 10/6-10/17. IT’S EASY! Call (619) 337-9244 to schedule a pickup of up to 8 items. Do you have items that are beyond repair? Schedule a pickup during landfill weeks 4/21-5/2 and 10/20-10/31 by calling Waste Management at (760) 439-2824.
Harvest Oceanside
Do you have surplus backyard produce? We’ll take it! Contact ProduceGood to schedule a FREE pick of your backyard for donation to local feeding organizations and keep it out of the landfill. Email [email protected] for more information.
Household Hazardous Waste
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) includes household chemicals and cleaners, batteries and other toxic materials. It is illegal to place HHW into any waste or recycling cart and cannot be picked up as a part of donation or landfill weeks. To properly dispose of HHW, call WM at (760) 439-2824 to schedule a drop-off on Saturdays only by appointment.
FREE HHW home collection for Oceanside seniors and disabled persons. Appointments limited. Call (800) 449-7857 or visit www.wmatyourdoor.com
Annual Cart Exchanges and Different Carts
Carts may be exchanged at no charge annually for any reason. This includes if the cart is damaged, not labeled properly, missing a label or for any reason.