Maple Grove, MN Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Backyard composting is permitted in Maple Grove subject to clear size, location, and material rules associated with the city's solid waste regulations (Chapter 26). A home compost bin may not exceed 5 feet wide by 12 feet long by 5 feet high, unless it is a commercially fabricated bin designed for composting. Bins must be constructed of durable materials such as rot-resistant wood, cement block, sturdy metal fencing, or be a commercially built composting bin. Location rules are strict: composting must occur in the rear yard; the bin must be at least 40 feet from the nearest neighbor's home; and at least 6 feet from any property line, any city park or trail, and the resident's own house. Acceptable materials are limited to yard and kitchen plant waste, specifically grass clippings, leaves and weeds, wood chips and small twigs, evergreen cones and needles, garden waste, uncooked food and vegetable scraps, and commercial composting enhancers. A central restriction is that all composted materials must come from the property on which the composting occurs, so residents may not haul in yard waste from elsewhere. Meat, dairy, and cooked food are not on the acceptable list, which helps limit odor and pests. Residents seeking more capacity or who generate food scraps beyond what backyard composting allows can use the curbside and drop-off organics options the city promotes through its garbage, recycling, and yard waste program. Following the size, setback, and material rules keeps a compost pile from becoming a nuisance subject to enforcement.