Commercial Food Waste Program

Organic Waste Collection Requirements for Businesses

If you operate a California business that generates more than two cubic yards of solid waste per week, you are required to participate in both organic waste collection (food scraps or yard waste) and trash collection services.

Certain businesses may qualify for a waiver depending on their waste volume or space limitations.

Waiver Options

1. Low Volume “De Minimis” Waiver

Your business may qualify if it meets one of the following criteria:

• More than two cubic yards of total solid waste per week, with less than 20 gallons of food waste generated weekly.
• Less than two cubic yards of total solid waste per week, with less than 10 gallons of food waste generated weekly.

2. Space Constraint Waiver

A space waiver may be available if physical space limitations prevent placing an additional organic waste container on your property.

To qualify, businesses must demonstrate that space constraints cannot be resolved by adjusting or downsizing existing containers and must first work with South Tahoe Refuse (STR) to evaluate possible solutions.

Qualification Process

• A site visit will be conducted by an STR staff member.
• Your business will complete a waste audit.
• STR will evaluate eligibility for the appropriate waiver.

Need Assistance?

Contact the Organics Team to discuss your situation or schedule a site visit.

Phone: 530-542-8336
Email: organics@southtahoerefuse.com

Waiver Applications

Download the waiver application and instructions below:

View Waiver Application →

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.