Effective January 1, 2022, all California residences and businesses are required to separate organic waste from other trash and non-organic recyclables and participate in an organic waste collection program. For more information on the legislation, visit the Irvine SB 1383 webpage.
The City of Irvine's organics/food waste recycling program for residents collect organic materials — including food waste — from all residential properties If your residence has a three-cart collection system — which includes a trash cart, a recycling cart, and a organics waste cart — see the information below.
Organic Waste Cart
Starting April 1, 2023, Irvine residents with three-cart waste service must place their organic waste (yard waste and food scraps) in their organic waste cart. Residents are not permitted to opt out of the program.
Residents must place the following items in their organic waste cart:
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Meat, bones, seafood, seafood shells, poultry, eggshells |
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Fruits and vegetables |
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Cheese and dairy products |
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Bread, pasta, rice, and grains |
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Non-waxed, food-soiled paper products, tissues, or cardboard |
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Plate scrapings |
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Coffee grounds, filters, and tea bags |
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Untreated (no pesticide) yard waste (leaves, grass, small branches, plants) |
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Your organic waste can be placed in a compostable/biodegradable bag, then placed into the green cart. It is recommended to line the bottom of your cart with a layer of yard waste or old newspaper.
Please refer to the Waste Management service rate sheet for updated waste collection rates.
Cart Color System:
Maintaining your Kitchen Pail:
For information on sorting your household waste, visit the Household Recycling page. If you have additional questions, please email environmentalprograms@cityofirvine.org or call the Irvine Recycle Hotline at 949-724-7669.
Downloadable Materials
New Organic Waste Recycling Information Flier (8.5x11'')
FAQ: THREE-CART RESIDENTIAL ORGANICS RECYCLING PROGRAM