California Recycling Centers That Pay Cash for Cans and Bottles
How the CRV Program Works
- Containers marked with “CA CRV”, “CA CASH REFUND”, or “California Redemption Value” are eligible.
- 5¢ for containers < 24oz, 10¢ for 24oz or larger, and 25¢ for wine/spirit pouches starting 2024.
- You can request payment by count for up to 50 containers per material type per visit.
- Amounts above that may be paid by weight using state minimums.
Learn more at: CalRecycle: Consumer Info
Sample Recycling Centers in California
Tri-CED Community Recycling – Buy-Back Center
- Region: San Diego County
- Payment by count or weight
- Community-oriented recycling hub
AIM Recycling – Multiple Locations
- Certified CRV facility
- Pays by weight for segregated materials
- Great for bulk recycling
Cash For Cans & Bellflower Recycling Center
- Region: Los Angeles
- Standard CRV payments + coupons/promotions
- Quick turnaround and customer rewards
C&S Waste Solutions – Northern California
- Locations: Ukiah, Willits, Laytonville
- Payment by count or weight
- Reliable for rural residents
Find a Recycling Center Near You
Use CalRecycle’s official tool to locate centers: CRV Center Locator Tool
Comparison Table
| Center | Region | Payment Structure | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tri-CED Recycling | San Diego County | Count or weight | Youth-run, high volume |
| AIM Recycling | Statewide | Weight | Best for large drop-offs |
| Cash For Cans | Los Angeles Area | Count/weight + coupons | Customer perks |
| C&S Waste Solutions | Ukiah / Willits | Count or weight | Multiple rural locations |
Tips to Maximize Your CRV Refund
- Sort containers by type: aluminum, glass, plastic, bi-metal.
- For 50 items or less, request payment by count for max value.
- Remove caps, rinse containers to avoid rejections.
- Only bring items with CRV/CA CASH REFUND labels.
More helpful links:
Views: 3