Commercial Food Waste Program

If you are a California business that generates over 2 cubic yards of solid waste per week, you must participate in organic waste (food scraps or yard waste) and trash collection services. There are certain circumstances that may qualify you for a waiver:
1. Low volume “de minimis” waivers are available if your business has:
a. Total solid waste disposal of two cubic yards or more per week, and includes food waste of less than 20 gallons per week; or
b. Total solid waste disposal of less than two cubic yards per week, and includes food waste of less than 10 gallons per week.
2. Space waivers are available if there are physical space constraints for an additional dumpster at your property
To qualify for a “de minimis” waiver, a site visit will be performed by a STR staff member, and a waste audit will need to be completed by the business. To qualify for a space waiver, you must demonstrate that space constraints cannot be resolved by downsizing existing containers and you must first work with STR to consider solutions. Contact the Organics
Team regarding your situation and a staff member will schedule a time to meet with you: 530-542-8336 or organics@southtahoerefuse.com.
Waiver applications and instructions can be found here.

South Tahoe Refuse staff will work with you to estimate your food waste levels if you’re unsure. In fact, we are required to visit your location for an evaluation if you might want to apply for a “de minimis” waiver.

Our local jurisdiction service areas did receive an SB 1383 “high elevation” waiver from collecting curbside food waste. However, California AB 1826 (2014) has similar organic separation requirements and does not have exemptions for high elevation communities.

If you generate more than 20 gallons of food waste per week, STR will provide you with a separate food waste dumpster that will be collected and emptied each week. If you produce less than 20 gallons each week, you can bring food waste to our facility at no charge.
STR staff will provide signage, materials, and training to you and your staff. It’s a simple program and we’re here to help make it as easy as possible.

All food scraps can be composted including: all surplus, spoiled or unsold food such as, but not limited to, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, shellfish, bones, rice, beans, pasta, bread, cheese, and coffee grounds. Only food waste goes into the bin—no bags, stickers, paper, containers, or foodservice ware of any kind.