Skip to content

Kern County · Building on your lot

Trash and recycling carts in Kern County

Kern County's own rules on trash and recycling carts, with the code text for every value.

Ask about trash and recycling carts in Kern County See coverage

Each rule below links to the section of the Kern County Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Kern County's code says

Kern County code What Kern County's code adds
When carts must come back
  • After the hauler collects, remove containers from the public right-of-way and return them to a storage location on the premises.
    § 8.28.040 · code text
    Following collection by the franchise hauler, containers shall be removed from any public right-of-way and returned to a storage location on the premises.
When carts may go to the curb
  • Place containers at the curb, alley or other approved location at the time the franchise hauler designates.
    § 8.28.040 · code text
    Containers intended for collection by a franchise hauler shall be placed at the curb, alley or other location accessible to the franchise hauler and as approved by the public official, at a time designated by the franchise hauler for collection.
Where carts are kept
  • Store containers behind the required front yard setback or in required enclosures.
    § 8.28.040 · code text
    Storage locations shall be behind the required front yard setback or in required enclosures.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

When can trash carts go out to the curb in Kern County?

Kern County's code: After the hauler collects, remove containers from the public right-of-way and return them to a storage location on the premises. (§ 8.28.040); Place containers at the curb, alley or other approved location at the time the franchise hauler designates. (§ 8.28.040).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Kern County property

Ask GoCodebook how Kern County's trash and recycling carts rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

Ask your question

More on building on your lot in Kern County

All building on your lot rules in Kern County

Fences and walls in Kern County

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Kern County

Running a business from home in Kern County

Solar panels and EV chargers in Kern County

Grading and erosion control in Kern County

Building on a hillside in Kern County

Outdoor lighting in Kern County

Signs on homes in Kern County

Kern County Municipal Code — full text