MANDATORY RECYCLING

Protecting the

environment.

California's SB 1383 in Madera County

Beginning July 2025

All residents and business owners in the high density SB1383 zone must respond to the notice they received in the mail by March 31st, 2025 with their plans to stay compliant.

What is SB 1383?


SB 1383 is a statewide effort in California aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by addressing the growing problem of organic waste. Passed in 2016, the law requires a 75% reduction in organic waste disposal by 2025, compared to 2014 levels, and a 20% recovery of edible food that would otherwise be wasted. The law plays a critical role in California’s fight against climate change.

Key Goals of SB 1383:


  • Divert 75% of organic waste (like food, yard debris, and paper) from landfills.
  • Recover 20% of edible food waste to help feed Californians in need.
  • Reduce methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas produced by organic waste in landfills.

Why Does SB 1383 Matter?


Organic waste makes up about 50% of California’s waste stream and is the largest contributor to methane emissions in landfills. By diverting this waste, SB 1383 helps:

  • Combat climate change.
  • Conserve resources.
  • Support food recovery efforts and help alleviate food insecurity.


There are 3 Ways to Comply with SB1383 in Madera County

1. Subscribing to weekly organic waste collection services provided by Redrock Environmental Group.


Sign up for services on-line, by phone, or in person. The rate for residential organics collection in all SB1383 zones is $19.82 per month. This service includes a 96 gallon cart that will be collected on a weekly basis.


The rate for commercial organics collection in the SB1383 zone starts at $76.39 per month for a 96 gallon cart that is collected on a weekly basis. Commercial service rates will vary depending on the amount of organic material you produce and the size of the collection container your business needs.


  • Sign-Up For Services HERE
  • In Person: 21739 Road 19, Chowchilla, CA 93610
  • CALL US


2. Self-hauling source separated organic waste to a community composting site, e.g. Fairmead Landfill or the North Fork Transfer Station.


Generators are to follow all Madera County codes regarding accumulation of waste at their properties. Self-haulers that are commercial businesses, including landscapers, are required to maintain certain records if they choose to self-haul. The rate for organic waste disposal will be determined by Madera County.


CalRecycle developed the Recordkeeping Tool for Self-Haulers to assist self-haulers in meeting the record-keeping requirements.

3. Managing organic waste on site at the generator’s premises, i.e. composting.


All listed compost sites will be subject to routine audits to verify compliance.


Learn what it takes to start composting at home HERE.

Learn More About SB1383

SB 1383 targets the statewide reduction of methane emissions from landfills, which are the 3rd largest source of methane in California. In Madera County, like much of the state, approximately 30% of the material sent to landfills consists of recoverable organics, including green waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper. When these organics decompose in landfills, they release methane—a climate super pollutant up to 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide—contributing to 20% of California’s methane emissions.


Additionally, the USDA estimates that up to 40% of food in the United States goes uneaten, and CalRecycle reports that food makes up 18% of waste in California landfills. This is a significant challenge, but also an opportunity for communities like Madera County to lead the way in reducing waste and protecting the environment.


By participating in organics diversion programs, residents and businesses in Madera County can help reduce landfill waste, lower methane emissions, and create a more sustainable future for our local community and beyond.

All residents and businesses that fall within the Madera County SB 1383 zones must comply with SB 1383 regulations.  You can find your zone by visiting: https://gis.maderacounty.com/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=d3ab0c72ccc54f19927572791eb379d2


Areas that are highlighted with blue stripes are considered the SB 1383 zones. 

For residents, organic waste services will begin at $19.82 per month. Commercial rates begin at $76.39 per month. Actual rates will vary depending on the volume of organic material you produce. 

The organics program will start on July 1st, 2025.

Yes. Residents and Commercial businesses can request a waiver application from Madera County. Waivers are given to those who meet at least one of the following requirements: 


1. If your business premises lacks adequate space for organics waste containers, you may qualify for a Physical Space Waiver. A site visit will be needed to verify your claim; limited Physical Space Waivers will be granted. 


2. De Minimis Waivers will be considered if you can demonstrate that you dispose of less than 20 gallons of organics each week; or 10 gallons per week for a smaller business. Multifamily properties are not eligible for De Minimus Waivers, due to the volume of tenant food waste.


Non-food generating businesses that have landscaping do not qualify for a waiver since they are generating plant debris. Please provide landscaper information in the SB 1383 Online Self-Reporting Form under the Alternative Compliance section.

Non-compliant property owners will be subject to Madera County's code enforement regulations.

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