Stockton, CA — The San Joaquin County Department of Public Works has completed the long-term closure of the Foothill Sanitary Landfill, marking a significant milestone in the County’s long-term strategy to modernize solid waste operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs for residents.
As of June 28, 2026, Foothill Sanitary Landfill has ceased accepting all waste materials, with operations now fully consolidated at the North County Recycling Center and Sanitary Landfill.
The decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of the County’s solid waste system, which identified consolidation as the most cost-effective and sustainable path forward. Over the next 15 years, the closure is projected to generate approximately $80 million in savings for the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund.
“This decision reflects the kind of responsible, long-term planning our residents expect from us. By consolidating operations, we’re reducing costs, strengthening our financial stability, and ensuring we can continue delivering essential services without placing additional burden on ratepayers,” said San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors Chair Sonny Dhaliwal.
The closure was implemented in phases to ensure a smooth transition. Public self-haul services at Foothill ended in January 2026, followed by the discontinuation of all remaining waste acceptance in mid-2026.
To accommodate the transition, Public Works secured necessary regulatory approvals to significantly expand capacity at the North County facility, increasing allowable tonnage and vehicle limits. Environmental review conducted in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act determined that the operational changes would not result in significant environmental impacts with mitigation measures in place.
“Closing Foothill and consolidating operations at North County allows us to operate more efficiently while maintaining high levels of customer service,” said San Joaquin County Public Works Director Najee Zarif. “This approach not only reduces costs but also positions the County to meet future solid waste needs in a sustainable and responsible way.”
Residents and commercial haulers will continue to have convenient access to disposal services. The North County facility—now the County’s primary landfill—offers expanded capacity and is located closer to the majority of customers. Additional disposal options remain available at the Lovelace Materials Recovery Facility and Transfer Station, which operates seven days a week.
Savings generated through the consolidation have already allowed the County to reduce residential waste disposal rates by 12% to 18%, providing direct financial relief to customers.
The closure of Foothill Sanitary Landfill aligns with the County Board of Supervisors’ strategic priority to maintain fiscal responsibility while promoting innovation in public service delivery.
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