Composting: Escondido vs San Marcos
How do composting rules compare between Escondido, CA and San Marcos, CA?
San Marcos 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 Marcos, CA
San Diego County
Backyard composting is permitted in unincorporated San Diego County. SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion statewide. Composting should avoid attracting wildlife in rural foothill areas.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Escondido | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA SB 1383 | SB 1383 (2022) |
| 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 |
| Wildlife | - | Enclosed bins recommended (rural) |
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 Marcos FAQ
Can I compost in SD County?
Yes. Use enclosed bins in rural areas to avoid wildlife.
Is composting required?
SB 1383 requires organic diversion. Compost or use green bin.
What about wildlife?
Enclosed bins prevent coyotes and raccoons. Open piles not recommended in foothill/rural areas.
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