Frequently asked questions and more

Monterey City Disposal Service (MCDS) provides the highest-quality refuse and recycling collection services for the City of Monterey. This page contains answers to the most common questions we receive. If you have further questions about the services we offer, please call (831) 372-7977.

How do I..?

"How do I start new service?"
If you have just moved into a home or apartment or just started a business within the City of Monterey, call us at (831) 372-7977 to establish service. This is also an excellent time to learn what can and can't be put in your carts and dumpsters.
 
"How do I ask about a bill?"
Do you have questions about your bill? Call us at (831) 372-7977, and we'll help you.
 
"How do I update my address?"
If you are moving, please give us a call to stop service at your residence so you don't get charged for additional waste service. Please leave the carts for the next resident to use. Visit our Moving Resources page to learn about useful tips and resources to help you before, during, and after your move.
 
"How do I report illegal dumping?"
Litter is a problem in our community. Monterey County is one of the most beautiful spots in California, yet a trip on local roadways can reveal medians, roadsides, and parking lots strewn with litter. Litter is not only an eyesore; it poses health risks, impacts our coastal waters, and is costly to clean up. Visit Keep Monterey County Clean to report a litter problem and learn more about how to be part of the solution to littering and illegal dumping.
 
"How do I recycle electronic waste, like old computers, printers, faxes, etc.?"
Visit our Household Hazardous Waste and Safe Disposal page to learn more about recycling and safely managing these items.

"How do I recycle? What goes where?"
Use the What Goes Where app below, or download it on your smartphone. Visit our services page to learn what is acceptable in your MCDS carts and dumpsters.

Meet our staff

The Monterey Disposal Service family is made up of many very special people. Our team is our most valuable resource and the main reason for our success. Our family-owned and run operation ensures that we help maintain the city's character. All decisions are made locally, not through the demands of a larger, out-of-touch operation.

Our team, made up of drivers, materials recovery facility workers, and customer service representatives, works together to provide the best services for collecting waste, diverting valuable resources from landfills, providing exceptional customer service, and helping our environment.

Our mission

Our mission is to provide the residents and businesses of Monterey with the highest-quality solid waste and recycling services, preserving resources, protecting the environment, and contributing to making our world community a cleaner, safer place to live.