Madera County, CA Trash & Recycling: Mandatory Organics Recycling (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- SB 1383 census tracts
- Compliance options
- 4 (franchise, self-haul, onsite, composting)
- 1st violation fine
- $50–$100
- 3rd+ violation fine
- $250–$500
- Coverage
- Unincorporated county only
Summary
SB 1383 census tracts in unincorporated Madera County must separate organic waste, via franchise collection, self-haul, on-site management, or community composting, under the county's local SB 1383 implementing ordinance.
All organic waste generators in SB 1383 Census Tracts shall comply with this chapter by either: 1.Subscribing to and complying with the requirements of the organic waste collection service provided by a county franchisee; 2.Self-hauling source separated organic waste in a manner that complies with the requirements of this chapter; 3.Managing organic waste on site at the generator's premises; or 4.Transporting source separated organic waste to a community composting site in accordance with this chapter.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 52).
Full Breakdown
California's SB 1383 forces local governments to mandate organic-waste separation; Madera County implements it in Chapter 7.24 for generators located in SB 1383 census tracts (areas without a CalRecycle waiver). Compliance options are subscribing to the franchisee's organic waste collection, self-hauling separated organics, managing organics on-site, or delivering to a community composting site (§7.24.107(A)). Covered commercial businesses must supply labeled containers, train staff and tenants annually, and allow inspections; de minimis, physical-space, and other waivers are available from the county. The county enforcement official investigates complaints, runs route reviews, and can issue escalating fines (§7.24.146). Applies only within unincorporated Madera County.
Violations & Fines
First violation: $50-$100 base penalty; second violation: $100-$200; third or subsequent violation: $250-$500 per violation, plus possible civil action or prosecution as a misdemeanor or infraction, per §7.24.146.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who must separate organic waste in unincorporated Madera County?
What happens if I don't comply?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madera County
California rules heatmap·Compare Madera County to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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