Fairfield, CA Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

California Senate Bill 1383 requires statewide reduction of organic waste sent to landfill, and Fairfield implements it through its franchise hauler (Republic Services). All residents are required to subscribe to and participate in the city's recycling and organics curbside collection service, and to separate organic waste from trash. Organic waste includes food waste (fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bones, eggshells), food-soiled paper (napkins, paper towels, coffee filters, pizza boxes), and yard waste (grass, leaves, prunings). Collected organics go to the Napa Recycling and Composting Facility at 820 Levitin Way, where they become compost and mulch. Businesses have been required to participate since January 1, 2022. City and hauler audits inspect carts for contamination; generators receive a notice if contamination is found, and active enforcement of resident requirements began January 1, 2024. After a notice of violation, compliance must be achieved within 60 days. Residents who prefer to handle organics on-site can backyard-compost as a self-haul/diversion method under SB 1383 regulations (14 CCR Section 18984.9), which counts as compliance as long as no putrescible food waste is generated above the composter's capacity and rodent risk is controlled.