California universally requires every resident and business to separate organic waste for recycling, alongside mandatory commercial recycling under AB 341 and AB 1826.
Public Resources Code Sections 42649 through 42652.5 establish three pillars of mandatory recycling. AB 341 requires businesses generating 4+ cubic yards of trash weekly to recycle. AB 1826 requires generators of organic waste to subscribe to organics recycling. SB 1383 (PRC 42652.5) requires all residents and businesses to separate food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste from landfill trash starting January 1, 2022, targeting 75% organic waste reduction by 2025. Cities must enforce, may impose noncompliance fines, and must procure recovered organic products. Local jurisdictions cannot opt out.
CalRecycle may fine jurisdictions up to $10,000 per day for noncompliance; cities must impose escalating fines on residents and businesses after January 1, 2024.
See how Sonoma's recycling requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.