Trash Collection Fees Are Coming to San Diego Rentals: What Property Owners Need to Know
Starting July 1, 2025, San Diego rental property owners will face a new monthly expense—trash collection fees. This change marks a significant shift in how waste services are handled for rental units in the city, and it’s essential for landlords to prepare now.
At Uplift Property Management, we’re committed to helping property owners stay compliant with local regulations while protecting their bottom line. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming trash fee changes and how to stay ahead.
What’s Changing?
For years, the City of San Diego provided free trash service to the majority of residential properties. That's changing.
Under phased rollout, the city will begin charging a monthly trash collection fee, specifically on multifamily residences. Landlords will begin receiving bills starting mid-2025, and the entire fee system will be up and running by 2026.
Who Will Be Affected?
This new policy applies to many property types within the City of San Diego. Here's a breakdown of what we know so far:
- Multifamily rentals (2+ units): These properties will be among the first to receive trash bills starting in 2025.
- Single-family homes: Most are still covered by the city's free service for now—but that could change.
- ADUs, duplexes, and condos: Depending on the service setup, some of these may also fall under the new fee system.
If your property currently receives city collection services, it’s time to find out if this change affects you.
How Much Will It Cost?
According to city projections, here’s what landlords can expect:
- Initial charge (mid-2025): Around $13 per unit, per month.
- Full implementation (by 2026): Around $29 per unit, per month.
That translates to over $300 annually per rental unit—an amount that can significantly impact operating costs if not accounted for in your budgeting.
Can Landlords Pass the Fee to Tenants?
Yes, but only if your lease is structured correctly.
Since these fees will be billed directly to owners, you’ll need specific language in your lease that allows for the pass-through of trash or municipal service charges. Without this clause, landlords could be left absorbing the cost.
What You Should Do Now:
- Review your current lease agreements.
- Add or revise a utility pass-through clause.
- Notify tenants in compliance with California landlord-tenant law.
Uplift can help you make the necessary updates to your lease so you're protected when the fees kick in.
Why Early Preparation Matters
Even relatively small fees can add up fast—especially for landlords managing multiple units. Waiting until the last minute to adjust your leases or notify tenants could mean covering costs out of pocket or violating local housing rules.
As with any local regulation, proactive planning is your best defense.
Final Thoughts from Uplift
This change is a big one for San Diego landlords. While the added fee may seem modest, it represents another step toward shifting municipal service costs to property owners. By updating your lease agreements now and educating your tenants, you’ll be positioned to handle the transition smoothly.
At Uplift Property Management, we stay on top of evolving regulations so you don’t have to. From lease updates to full-service management, we’re here to support you and keep your investments on track.
Need help reviewing or updating your lease?
Contact Uplift Property Management today and let’s make sure you’re ready for what’s ahead.
