Mandatory Recycling and Composting Continues to Expand

 

Three Cities Add Recycling Rules - Spring 2017 Update

Alameda County’s Mandatory Recycling Ordinance first went into effect in 2012 for recycling requirements, then expanded in 2014 requiring the collection of compostable materials such as food scraps and food-soiled paper (organics) as well. Some jurisdictions chose to participate on a delayed schedule, with Fremont set to roll out organics collection requirements effective July 1, 2017. No fines will be issued before January 1, 2018 for organics violations in Fremont.

On January 1, 2017, the unincorporated area of Oro Loma Sanitary District where composting was not yet mandatory, joined the rest of the jurisdiction and is now participating in the Mandatory Recycling Ordinance. Businesses of all sizes and multi-family properties with five or more units throughout the jurisdiction are now required to provide adequate collection service for recycling as well as organics.

At the same time as Oro Loma Sanitary District, Pleasanton also expanded their participation in the Ordinance. Recycling requirements are now effective at all businesses—including those with less than four cubic yards of weekly garbage service—and organics collection requirements are required at all businesses (if they generate enough organic waste) and multi-family properties with five or more units.

No matter if requirements in your city are new or have been in effect for years, the Alameda County Waste Management Authority is here to help you comply, with free on-request support services and materials.