Check out the latest edition of our Curbside Collection Newsletter for important updates about services, drop off locations, recycling guidelines, rate adjustment notice, and to learn more about how you can help to keep Big Bear Lake beautiful.
We have some important updates regarding residential trash, recycling and green waste service. Please review the information below regarding residential waste collection services, and reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
Curbside Collection Services
Big Bear Disposal offers curbside pick-up for trash, recycling, and yard waste. All single family residential units, including full-time residents, part-time residents and visitors, can utilize this service by placing their bins on the curb prior to 6:00 A.M. on their scheduled collection day. Please use the below QR code to view the collection schedule. Please note Big Bear Disposal will only service their rolling trash carts and if your property does not have the carts, please contact Big Bear Disposal.
Be A Good Neighbor
Place carts out of sight within 24-hours after trash has been collected to discourage unwanted use of carts and to help prevent wildlife from getting into your trash. For those who wish to utilize curbside collection but are not able to place their carts out on collection day, Big Bear Disposal offers a pull out service for an additional fee. Please contact them for more information.
Clean Bear Drop-Off Sites
Clean Bear Site No. 2, located at 39690 Big Bear Boulevard, will no longer accept waste at the end of the day on Sunday, August 2, 2026. Clean Bear Site No. 1, located at 41970 Garstin Drive, will remain open to serve the City. Their hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week. To view the curbside residential trash collection days and Clean Bear Site location, please visit the City's Solid Waste & Recycling Programs webpage.
SB 1383 Recycling Guidelines
California’s SB 1383 mandates statewide reductions in organic waste and edible food disposal. While Big Bear Lake has received a high-elevation waiver exempting residents from separating food waste, yard trimmings and green waste must be placed in green carts or bags for collection. Green waste is all-natural fiber such as: leaves, prunings, pine needles, pinecones, and other compostable land material. All food waste still goes in the gray cart. Food waste composting at home is encouraged, and resources are available to help you get started.
Contact Big Bear Disposal for Additional Services, Including:
- Pull Out Service: Big Bear Disposal offers a pull in/pull out service for a monthly fee, so you don’t have to worry about meeting the 24-hour collection window for curbside pickup.
- Bear Proof Carts: If you have issues with wildlife getting into your trash, request a bear proof cart from Big Bear Disposal for a one-time fee.
- Request a Free Green Waste Cart: Big Bear Disposal offers green waste carts for all customers. Alternatively, customers can place up to 15 bags of yard waste per week curbside on their specified collection day.
- Don’t Use Curbside Collection? If you are unable to make the timing of curbside collection, and would prefer to use the Clean Bear Sites, request your carts to be picked up. Big Bear Disposal will gladly pick up any solid waste and recycling carts that are not being used.
Contact Big Bear Disposal by visiting BigBearDisposal.com or calling (909) 866-3942.
Rate Adjustment Notice
The City’s Franchise Agreement with Big Bear Disposal allows for annual rate adjustments subject to approval of the City Council. On June 10, 2026, the City Council authorized rate adjustments for the next 5-years, through June 30, 2031 not to exceed 5% annually. The adjustment for July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027 is 4.2% for all residential and commercial customers. These rates will be reflected on the November property tax statements for residential customers and on the July billing for commercial customers. Please note that all single family residential properties are billed for solid waste services on their annual property tax bills. Solid waste service is a mandatory service.
Let’s Keep Big Bear Lake Beautiful
Your participation helps reduce landfill waste, protect local wildlife, and support California’s climate goals. Make sure carts are stored away from the street unless it’s collection day. Thanks for being part of a cleaner, more sustainable Big Bear Lake!
City of Big Bear Lake Solid Waste & Recycling Services
(909) 866-5831