Alameda, CA Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Alameda has a strong, mandatory organics program built around the City's Solid Waste and Recycling code, AMC Chapter XXI, which was amended in its entirety by Ordinance 3310 (adopted November 16, 2021) to implement California's SB 1383 short-lived climate pollutant rules. Section 21-2.1 makes it mandatory for the owner or occupant of any premises to contract and pay for recyclable-materials and organic-materials collection through the City's franchised hauler, unless exempt. Section 21-2.8 requires single-family and multiplex generators to subscribe to approved organics collection, and allows generators to manage organic waste instead by preventing or reducing it, managing it on site (backyard composting), or using a community composting site consistent with 14 CCR Section 18984. Commercial and multifamily generators have parallel duties under Section 21-2.9, with de minimis and other waivers under Section 21-2.10, and self-hauler rules under Section 21-2.13. Section 21-4 addresses community composting operations and facility capacity reporting to the regional Waste Management Authority (WMA), better known as StopWaste / Alameda County. The City's franchised hauler (the curbside provider) collects the green organics cart; food scraps and yard trimmings go in the organics cart rather than the trash. The program reflects the wider Alameda County diversion mandates and the California Integrated Waste Management Act referenced in Section 21-2.2.