Composting: Peoria vs Tempe
How do composting rules compare between Peoria, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Peoria and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Peoria, AZ
Maricopa County
Backyard composting is allowed in Peoria for residential yard/food waste. No state mandate (AZ has no SB 1383 equivalent). Piles must be rodent-resistant and not create odor/vector nuisance per Peoria Code Ch. 18.
View full Peoria rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe permits backyard composting and offers free compost bins periodically. City provides curbside organics pickup in a pilot area and runs a Compost Cats partnership. Commercial ops >10 cu yd need ADEQ permit.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Peoria | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Allowed, enclosed bin preferred | - |
| Setback | 5 ft from property line | 3 ft from property line |
| Prohibited inputs | Meat, dairy, pet waste | - |
| Curbside compost | Not offered by city | - |
| Nuisance fine | $100 + abatement | - |
| City program | - | Pilot curbside organics |
| Discount bins | - | Via Public Works events |
| Drop-off | - | HHPCC green-waste |
| Prohibited | - | Meat, dairy, pet waste |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Peoria FAQ
Does Peoria pick up compost at the curb?
No. Peoria does not offer curbside organics collection. Yard waste goes with regular trash or to Maricopa County's compost drop-off facilities.
Can I compost food scraps in my backyard?
Yes for fruit/veg scraps and coffee grounds. No meat, dairy, bones, or pet waste. Use a sealed bin or tumbler to prevent rodent attraction.
Tempe FAQ
Does Tempe have curbside compost pickup?
Tempe has piloted organics collection in select neighborhoods; citywide rollout is being evaluated. Check tempe.gov/recycle for your address eligibility.
Where can I drop off yard waste in Tempe?
Tempe's Household Products Collection Center (1320 E University Dr) accepts green waste. Residents can also get discounted backyard compost bins at Public Works events.
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