Composting: Palo Alto vs San Jose

Can I compost in my yard in unincorporated Santa Clara County?

Yes. Backyard composting of yard trimmings and food scraps is allowed, and the County's Sustainable Landscape Ordinance actively encourages compost use, as long as it does not create odor, pest, or nuisance problems.

Am I required to compost or separate food waste?

Under California's SB 1383 (effective January 2022), organic waste must be kept out of the landfill. Residents must divert food scraps and yard debris through an organics collection cart, home composting, or self-haul to an approved facility.

What goes in my green organics cart in San Jose?

Food scraps including meat and dairy, food-soiled paper like pizza boxes and napkins, and yard trimmings such as leaves, grass, and small branches. No plastic bags, even compostable, unless BPI-certified.

Do apartments and condos have to comply?

Yes. Multi-family properties must provide tenants with organics collection service and clear signage on each enclosure. Property managers are responsible for cart placement and tenant education under SB-1383.

Can I compost in my backyard instead?

Backyard composting is encouraged and counts toward SB-1383 compliance for residents who fully process organics on site. However, most households still need green-cart service for excess yard waste and meat scraps.