Senate Bill 1383

Organics like food scraps, yard trimmings, paper, and cardboard make up half of what Californians dump in landfills. Organic waste decomposing in landfills is a large source of methane emissions, a climate super pollutant much more potent than carbon dioxide (CO₂).

By diverting organics from the landfill, you will help fight climate change by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Additionally, in Milpitas, food scraps and food-soiled paper are turned into an ingredient used in animal feed. This means more food for all!

Single Family

If you have a split-cart for garbage/food scraps, you are already in compliance! Keep up the good work by continuing to separate all food scraps and food soiled paper and placing them in the brown side/food scraps side of your split-cart.

Multi-Family & Businesses

All businesses and multi-family properties will need to have organic waste collection services (yard trimmings and food scraps). Contact Milpitas Sanitation, Inc. to sign up for collection services 408-988-4500 or visit the Milpitas Sanitation website).

Large grocery stores and food distribution businesses must donate edible food to food recovery organizations (such as food banks) with other food businesses starting food donations in 2024. To find out if you are required to donate excess edible food, visit the Santa Clara County Food Recovery Program page.

De Minimis Waiver

If you are a commercial business/multi-family generating only minimal amounts of waste, you may be eligible for the De Minimis Waiver (PDF) to be in compliance.

Organic waste includes yard trimmings, food scraps, paper, and cardboard.