Frequently Asked Questions

Organic waste is any material that is biodegradable and comes from either a plant or an animal. Biodegradable waste is organic material that can be broken into carbon dioxide, methane or simple organic molecules, such as food scraps and yard trimmings.

Yes, everyone is required to participate. If you choose not to participate, you may receive an Improper Facility Use fine as laid out by the State of California, Government Code Sections 53069.4, 25132, 36900.

A focus on recovering and recycling organic materials is vital to California’s efforts to combat climate change. When organic materials such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and paper decompose anaerobically (without oxygen) in a landfill, they produce methane — one of the most potent climate pollutants in the atmosphere and a major contributor to climate change.

If self-haulers do not abide by the organic waste requirements as laid out by the State of California, they are subject to improper facility use fines. For violations occurring after January 1, 2024, the State of California requires all jurisdictions to issue a Notice of Violation requiring compliance within 60 days. If after 60 days, the entity is still not in compliance, the jurisdiction is required to impose penalties. 

The penalties imposed by any jurisdiction are based on Government Code Sections 53069.4, 25132 and 36900 and are as follows:

• First violation: $50-$100 per violation
• Second violation: $100-$200 per violation
• Third or subsequent violation: $250-$500 per violation

Organics recycling helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air and water quality, and create valuable resources such as compost, renewable energy and mulch. In addition, it conserves natural resources by reducing the need for raw materials used in producing compost, mulch and renewable energy. This contributes to overall sustainability efforts and helps preserve ecosystems.

CalRecycle and local authorities may provide support and resources to help self-haulers understand and comply with SB 1383 requirements. This includes educational materials, training programs and tools such as the Record-keeping Tool for Self-Haulers, designed to facilitate compliance with record-keeping obligations.