Modesto, CA Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

108 of the Modesto Code of Ordinances requires every occupant, property owner, and owner of a multiple-dwelling building to keep their premises clean and sanitary, and generally bars letting garbage, recycling, or organic waste pile up for more than two calendar weeks, or rubbish for more than one calendar month. Rather than sweeping composting into that accumulation limit, the section carves it out by name: the ordinance shall not be construed to prohibit the composting of grass or trimmings in a manner allowed pursuant to the Composting Regulations of the State of California.

In practical terms, Modesto does not impose its own bin design, pile size, or setback standard for backyard composting; a resident's grass and trimmings pile is compliant so long as it operates within the state composting framework rather than under the local nuisance clock. The same subsection lists parallel accumulation exceptions for construction materials kept on-site during an active building permit, and for clean recyclables neatly stored awaiting a trip to a recycling center, or wood neatly piled for household use. 108 sits inside Title 5, Chapter 5 (Solid Waste), a compost pile that stops being grass or trimmings, for example if it becomes a dumping ground for garbage or accumulates household refuse, loses the exemption and is subject back to the two-week garbage limit and enforcement as a nuisance. 108 remain the operative standard for how the exempted pile must be managed.