Composting Certification
If you are a resident of the RecycleSmart service area (Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek and included Unincorporated County), you can certify your composting effort at home and get a $4.50 reduction on your quarterly Republic Services garbage bill.
Certified Systems
- Home composting systems may include open or contained systems: Soilsaver Compost Bin, Vermicomposting (worms), backyard bin, pile, tumbler/ball, wood bin, electric composter, etc. Home composting certification does not include curbside organics (green cart) collection.
- Compost systems should not be located near any property line or building to prevent fires.
- Food waste must be covered by yard waste to mask odors and prevent attracting and harboring flies, rodents, and other pests.
- Composting systems should be maintained to promote material decomposition. Management measures may include preparation of materials, such as cutting or chipping to reduce size, aeration, and addition of moisture.
- No certified system shall contain the following:
- Fish, meat, dairy, or animal products
- Large items that slow down the composting process
- Animal or pet feces (other than dairy or poultry manure);
- Non-organic items.
I agree to maintain and use my compost system throughout the year, allow inspection to correct problems, if necessary, and recertify my system annually. These guidelines are not intended to supersede any local laws or ordinances that regulate home composting in your community.
Complete the Composting Certification Form