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San Diego, CA Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Composting
Permitted
SB 1383
Organic diversion required
City Collection
Environmental Services Dept
Code Enforcement
(619) 236-5500

Summary

Backyard composting is permitted in San Diego. SB 1383 requires organic waste diversion. The city provides organics collection through its Environmental Services Department.

SB 1383, Lara. Short-lived climate pollutants: methane emissions: dairy and livestock: organic waste: landfills. [...] This bill would require the state board, no later than January 1, 2018, to approve and begin implementing that comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants to achieve a reduction in methane by 40%, hydrofluorocarbon gases by 40%, and anthropogenic black carbon by 50% below 2013 levels by 2030, as specified. The bill also would establish specified targets for reducing organic waste in landfills. [...] The bill would require the department, in consultation with the state board, to adopt regulations that achieve the specified targets for reducing organic waste in landfills. The bill would authorize local jurisdictions to charge and collect fees to recover the local jurisdiction's costs incurred in complying with the regulations.

Full Breakdown

Composting is encouraged. SB 1383 mandates organic diversion statewide. The city's Environmental Services Department provides green waste and food waste collection. Composting workshops available through the city. Composting must not create nuisance conditions. Most residential composting in San Diego is encouraged rather than regulated: backyard bins and tumblers generally do not require permits as long as they are set back from property lines, kept covered to prevent vectors, and free of meat, dairy, or oils that attract pests. Commercial-scale composting requires state solid-waste permits. Check the Environmental Services Dept website for curbside green-bin availability and accepted materials, since rules vary by pickup route.

Violations & Fines

No penalties for composting. Nuisance conditions may trigger code enforcement at (619) 236-5500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I compost in San Diego?
Yes. Encouraged for SB 1383 compliance.
Does the city collect organics?
Yes. Environmental Services provides food waste and green waste collection.
What can I compost?
Food scraps, yard waste, coffee grounds, paper. Avoid meat/dairy.

Sources & Official References

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