California Statewide Rule

California SB 1383 Requires Statewide Organic Waste Recycling

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across California (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: SB 1383
Code: Public Resources Code 42652.5
Target: 75% organics diversion
Max fine: $10,000 per day

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: California Public Resources Code 42652.5

Summary

SB 1383 requires every California resident and business to separate food scraps and yard waste from trash, with universal collection or on-site composting.

(a) (1) A business that generates four cubic yards or more of commercial solid waste, as defined in Section 42649.1, per week, shall arrange for recycling services specifically for organic waste in the manner specified in subdivision (b). (2) On or after January 1, 2020, if the department determines that statewide disposal of organic waste has not been reduced to 50 percent of the level of disposal during 2014, a business that generates two cubic yards or more per week of commercial solid waste shall arrange for the organic waste recycling services specified in paragraph (1), unless the department determines that this requirement will not result in significant additional reductions of organics disposal. (3) A business located in a rural jurisdiction that is exempted pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 42649.82 is not subject to this chapter.

Source: California Public Resources Code 42652.5View official code

Full Breakdown

Public Resources Code 42652.5 and CalRecycle's SB 1383 regulations (Title 14, Division 7, Chapter 12) set a 75 percent reduction target for organic waste landfilling. Every jurisdiction must provide three-stream collection or approved alternatives, and residents must subscribe to organics service, self-haul, or compost on site. Backyard composting remains permitted. Cities may not opt out, though they choose enforcement timing. Edible food generators must also donate surplus food to recovery organizations.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation per day under Public Resources Code 42652.5; cities must adopt enforcement programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use the green bin?

Yes, unless your jurisdiction approves backyard composting or self-haul. SB 1383 requires every resident to keep organic waste out of the landfill stream.

Is home composting allowed everywhere?

Yes. State regulations explicitly permit backyard composting as a compliant alternative, though local nuisance and rodent rules still apply.

Sources

Public Resources Code

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