California’s Assembly Bill 1826 requires applicable businesses to recycle or compost organic waste. The purpose of AB 1826 is to curb greenhouse gas emissions by diverting the decomposition of organic material at the landfill, which also helps the City meet their climate action goals. Compliance with AB 1826 is being phased in for all businesses by the year 2020. However, starting January 1, 2019, generators of 4 cubic yards or more of garbage per week will be required to recycle organic waste. Organic waste includes food scraps, soiled paper products (e.g., pizza boxes, paper towels, etc.), yard trimmings and landscape materials. 

To comply with the state mandate commercial generators should contact Recology San Mateo County to either set up an organics collection service or discuss alternatives in place to verify compliance. For information or to start recycling and/or compost services, please email Recology San Mateo County or call 650-595-3900.