Composting: Escondido vs San Diego
How do composting rules compare between Escondido, CA and San Diego, CA?
San Diego has fewer restrictions than Escondido.
Escondido, CA
San Diego County
Escondido mandates organic waste separation under CA SB 1383. Residents receive green-waste carts from EDCO. Backyard composting is allowed and encouraged. Multi-family and businesses must subscribe to organics service.
View full Escondido rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
Backyard composting is permitted in San Diego. SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion. The city provides organics collection through its Environmental Services Department.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Escondido | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA SB 1383 | - |
| Hauler | EDCO Waste | - |
| Backyard Compost | Allowed, no permit under 100 sq ft | - |
| Setback | 5 ft from property line | - |
| Multi-Family/Biz | Must subscribe to organics service | - |
| Composting | - | Permitted |
| SB 1383 | - | Organic diversion required |
| City Collection | - | Environmental Services Dept |
| Code Enforcement | - | (619) 236-5500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Escondido FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard compost bin in Escondido?
No — residential-scale composting (under 100 sq ft, 5 ft setback, no odor/vectors) is allowed without a permit on any single-family parcel.
Does Escondido require food scraps in the green cart?
Yes. Under SB 1383 food waste must go in your EDCO green organics cart, not the black trash cart. Paper plates and napkins with food residue are also accepted.
San Diego FAQ
Can I compost in San Diego?
Yes. Encouraged for SB 1383 compliance.
Does the city collect organics?
Yes. Environmental Services provides food waste and green waste collection.
What can I compost?
Food scraps, yard waste, coffee grounds, paper. Avoid meat/dairy.
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