Santa Cruz Waste Fees Up 50% in 2026, Discounts Offered
Santa Cruz residents will face increased waste collection fees, up to 50% (70-150 euros annually), starting January 1, 2026, to comply with a new Waste Law, with discounts available for specific groups like seniors, large families, and those who recycle.
Starting January 1, 2026, residents in Santa Cruz will pay more for waste collection services. This change is being made to comply with a new Waste Law. Yesterday, the official local bulletin announced the approval of new rules for urban solid waste management fees, which will see charges increase by up to 50% (between 70 and 150 euros annually). However, there will be discounts available for certain groups, including those over 65, large families, homes that are empty, or for people who recycle using the brown bin.
To apply for these discounts, the person registered at a residential property, or the occupant of a non-residential property, must submit an application along with the necessary documents to the City Council's Tax Department. A 50% discount will be given based on income: if the total income of everyone registered in the home is no more than three times the official income benchmark (Iprem). Similarly, those over 65 who receive a retirement pension will pay half the fee. Large families can also get a 50% discount if their income does not exceed 9.5 times the Iprem.
Homes located more than 200 meters from waste containers will receive a 50% discount, and those more than 300 meters away will get a 100% reduction, as is common in areas like Anaga. Additionally, empty homes can get a 25% discount, provided they submit a sworn statement. There will also be a 10% discount for households that separate their waste into the brown bin.
The official local bulletin also announced yesterday the approval of rules for managing, inspecting, and collecting these fees, which include the payment deadlines for 2026.