New Food & Yard Waste Rules - SB 1383

On December 8th, 2021 the Maywood City Council passed the city’s mandatory organic waste disposal reduction ordinance (Ordinance # 20-013) requiring all residential, commercial and multi-family premises in the city to subscribe to the city’s organic waste reduction program. The city of Maywood will be implementing various measures to achieve the state-mandated waste diversion goals. Information on food waste for businesses and commercial compliance can be found at California’s Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy.

Reason for Changes

In 2016 Senate Bill (SB) 1383 established a goal of reducing the volume of organic waste disposed in California landfills by 75% by 2025. As defined by the law, organic waste includes lawn and landscaping debris, wood and lumber, food, food-soiled paper and other paper and cardboard products. Currently, two-thirds of this material is landfilled. As organics break down in landfills, they create methane, a powerful greenhouse gas which the state of California has identified as a factor in climate change. In addition, SB 1383 establishes a goal of increasing edible food recovery by 20% by 2025. 

The regulations specify that certain food-related businesses must donate the maximum amount of edible food they would otherwise dispose of to food recovery organizations. Starting January, 2022, wholesale food vendors, food service providers, food distributors, grocery stores and supermarkets, must donate surplus edible food to food recovery organizations. Starting in 2024 this will include hotels, restaurant facilities, health facilities, state agency cafeterias, large venues, events and educational facilities. California is working towards a 2025 goal to redirect and donate 20% of edible food to those in need.

Collection and Recycling

Starting in 2022, the City and Universal Waste Systems have expanded organic waste collection services for residents and businesses. Food waste will continue to be collected in your gray trash bin/cart and will be recycled at a high diversion facility.

Who is Affected?

The new organic waste law affects all Californians, including single family residences, multi-family complexes, commercial entities, and schools. The City of Maywood launched its organic recycling program in January 2022. 

Residential and Multi-Family (1-4 units)

For Residential Properties, green carts will continue to be used for all lawn and garden debris. Food scraps and food-soiled paper, such as pizza boxes and paper plates will continue to be placed in your blue recycling cart. 

Your participation is mandated and vital to protect California’s environment and economy from the impacts of climate change.

AB 1826: Mandatory Organics Recycling

AB 1826: Mandatory Organics Recycling (PDF)

Organic recycling is the separation of biodegradable food waste from non-organic waste to create compost or renewable energy. Organics recycling also prevents harmful greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere and contributing to global warming. For more information call 800-631-7016 or visit the Universal Waste Systems website.

What Goes in the Cart?

Recycling Maywood (PDF)

In an effort to recycle our trash and make sure we get the right waste to the right place, Universal Waste Systems use a three can system for residential trash, recycling and green waste services. Sometimes knowing what waste can go into what may seem a bit confusing so we have provided a list to help you. Note that some items, such as Bamboo, Ivy, and Palm Fronds which can cause damage to processing equipment, are not listed under Green Waste as they are categorized as trash. Please note that contaminated carts will be red-tagged and not serviced.