This study investigates the effectiveness of government policies in solving waste problem in urban areas based on participation of Probolinggo City, East Java, society. This research was conducted using qualitative and quantitative models. Quantitatively, the data obtained through a simple tabulation; while qualitatively obtained through the interpretation of interview results of people that involved in policy implementation. The results of research in sample area showed that, first, there is society participation formed as community groups and Waste Banks; second, the government's policy in waste management with a participatory model is still not effective; this not only because the lacking of public awareness, but also because the government is less pro-active in the dissemination of policy that has been decided.