Bay Area Recology to crack down on overflowing trash bins by using cameras on trucks

SAN MATEO COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) -- Recology customers could soon face warnings, and even fees, if they overfill their trash bins.

The company has rolled out new cameras on garbage trucks in 11 cities across San Mateo County.

The cameras snap pictures and are reviewed by Recology to see whether bins are too full.

If they are, you will get an email or phone call with a warning. After two warnings, you face a fee of up to $15.

Robert Reed is a spokesperson for Recology.

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"So, it's a warning. It alerts them to this issue of their overflowing trash bin. Often that will solve the problem right there," Reed said.

Recology says the program is designed to improve the safety of drivers and customers and to prevent trash from spilling over onto streets.

"It's also to help make sure customers who need extra service get the proper service, get the proper containers and everybody pays their fair share," Reed said. "What we are really looking for is when this overfilling is repeated multiple times or for extended period of time. Then we can send a recycling specialist to an address and help customers."

Brian Mascarenhas didn't know about the program until we told him.

"It happens that our bins are overflowing. It's not often," Mascarenhas said.

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He's not keen on the idea of warnings or fees.

"I don't think people like it, especially in this economy," Mascarenhas said.

The Recology truck camera program extends to other counties. It actually started in Sonoma County over two months ago.

Terry McNamara doesn't agree with the program that charges customers extra for overflowing trash bins. But she admits it's not a problem she' s worried about.

"I've been here over 30 years, and my trash has never overflowed onto the sidewalk," McNamara said.