Oklahoma City, OK Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)
Key Facts
- Location rule
- Rear yard only
- Pest control
- Must prevent insects, rats, vermin
- Odor standard
- Must meet Environmental Performance Standards
- Runoff
- Must not drain onto neighbors or waterways
- Zones covered
- R-1 through R-MH-2 residential districts
Summary
Oklahoma City's zoning code requires backyard compost piles in residential districts to sit in the rear yard, stay pest-free, and avoid odor and runoff violations under Section 59-9350.21.1.
A.In Residential Districts R-1, R-1ZL, R-2, R-3, R-3M, R-4M, R-4, R-MH-1, or R-MH-2 Composting requirements shall be as follows:(1)Compost shall be located in the rear yard.B.Composting shall be managed and cared for to prevent infestation of insects, rats, vermin, other pests, and shall not be allowed to become trash as defined in Oklahoma State Statute Section 11-22-111. (Cleaning and Mowing of Property).C.Composting must be managed to prevent unpleasant or noxious odors and comply with Environmental Performance Standards, as set forth in Section 59-12400 (Environmental Performance Standards).D.Composting must minimize run-off into waterways and onto adjacent properties.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 5 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under City Code § 59-9350.21.1, home composting in Oklahoma City's residential zoning districts (R-1, R-1ZL, R-2, R-3, R-3M, R-4M, R-4, R-MH-1, and R-MH-2) must sit in the rear yard only: no front or side placement. The pile has to be managed to keep out insects, rats, and other vermin, and can't be left to become trash under state cleanup law. Owners must also control odor to meet the city's Environmental Performance Standards (§ 59-12400) and keep runoff from draining into waterways or onto neighboring lots. The rule also governs composting done as part of a home garden, community garden, or roof garden.
Violations & Fines
Composting outside the rear yard, or a pile that draws pests, reeks, or drains runoff onto neighbors, violates § 59-9350.21.1 and can trigger a zoning code enforcement case and cleanup order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put my compost bin in the front yard in Oklahoma City?
Does OKC require a permit for a home compost pile?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Oklahoma City
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