San Diego County, CA Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Composting and organic-waste handling in unincorporated San Diego County are governed by California's SB 1383, the statewide Short-Lived Climate Pollutants law requiring jurisdictions to divert organic waste from landfills. Since the program's rollout, residents and businesses must separate organic materials such as food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard trimmings from the trash. The County incorporates these requirements into its Solid Waste Ordinance, and within the unincorporated county many residents can place food scraps and food-soiled paper in the same green curbside bin used for yard trimmings and non-hazardous wood waste; requirements differ between the densely-populated and sparsely-populated parts of the unincorporated area. Backyard composting is expressly supported as an alternative: single-family residences in the densely-populated areas, including multifamily premises with four or fewer units, who manage all of their organic materials on-site (for example by home composting) may apply for a waiver from the organics-recycling service requirement. Home composting of yard and food waste is therefore both allowed and encouraged. Residents should keep compost piles managed to avoid odor, pests, and vector issues, which are addressed separately by County code enforcement and Vector Control. Confirm bin service details with your hauler and the County Department of Public Works.