Omaha, NE Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Omaha Municipal Code § 18-122 limits any residential compost bin to 5 feet wide by 4 feet high by 5 feet long (100 cubic feet), requires at least three enclosed vertical sides, and bars locating it in a front or side yard. Bins must sit at least 5 feet from any property line and 30 feet from a neighboring principal structure, and can't sit on a drainage or utility easement. Only on-site organic waste is allowed in the bin; the code names dirt, sod, leaves, chopped landscape waste, and fruit/vegetable scraps as permitted material, while banning meat, animal or human waste, treated wood, paper, plastic, and construction debris. Owners must turn the pile to keep it from smelling and attracting rodents.