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San Francisco, CA Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

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

Key Facts

Enacted
2009 (first in U.S.)
Applies To
All residents and businesses
Recyclables
Paper, glass, metal, plastic in blue bin
Compost
Food scraps, yard waste in green bin
State Law
SB 1383 adds organics diversion mandate

Summary

San Francisco's Mandatory Recycling and Composting Ordinance (Environment Code Chapter 19, enacted 2009) was the first in the U.S. to require all residents and businesses to recycle and compost. Compliance is mandatory for every person and business in the city.

California's Organic Waste Reduction — SB 1383 Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy. Landfilled food and other organic waste rotting in landfills emits methane climate pollution. To reduce methane pollution and other short-lived climate pollutants, California passed SB 1383 (Lara, 2016). The law set targets for 2025: 75% less organic waste sent to landfills; 20% of unsold, still-edible food sent to food recovery organizations. Collections: All jurisdictions need to provide organic waste collection services to all residents and businesses, and recycle organic waste. Procurement: Jurisdictions must use the products made from the recycled organic material, such as compost and mulch. Food Recovery: Some food service businesses must donate unsold food.

Source: SF Mandatory Recycling and Composting OrdinanceView official code

Full Breakdown

All recyclable materials must be placed in blue bins and compostable materials in green bins. Accepted recyclables include paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and most plastics. Compostables include food scraps, yard trimmings, and soiled paper products. California SB 1383 (2022 enforcement) adds statewide organics diversion requirements that complement SF's existing program. Commercial food generators must also comply with edible food recovery requirements. The city provides education and outreach to improve sorting compliance.

Violations & Fines

Contamination of recycling or compost bins may result in rejection, sorting surcharges, and warning notices. Fines for non-compliance range from $100 for residential to $500 for commercial properties per occurrence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is composting mandatory in San Francisco?
Yes, San Francisco was the first U.S. city to mandate composting. All food scraps and compostable materials must be placed in green bins, not the trash.
What happens if I contaminate my recycling bin?
Contaminated bins may be rejected by Recology, and sorting surcharges or warning notices may be issued. Repeated non-compliance can result in fines.

Sources & Official References

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All San Francisco rules

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