General
What’s the main goal of SB 1383?
SB 1383 sets statewide goals to reduce the emissions of short-lived climate pollutants that have an impact on climate change. By 2025, SB 1383 intends to reduce organic waste disposal in landfills by 75%. SB 1383 also mandates a statewide goal to recover at least 20% of currently disposed of edible food for human consumption.
How does this law help the environment and people?
SB 1383 reduces the amount of organic waste that is landfilled. When organic waste is landfilled it produces greenhouse gases and other short-lived climate pollutants. Lowering the production of short-lived climate pollutants, like methane and carbon dioxide, reduces the impact these gasses have on climate change.
How can we prevent issues with odor, pests, and hygiene in the compost bin?
- Empty out, rinse, and dry your kitchen pail regularly.
- You may line your pail and organics container with food-soiled paper or a paper napkin to absorb any liquids and food waste.
- Consider lining your organics container with a layer of green waste before placing your food waste inside.
- Consider buying a charcoal filter for your organics bin to mitigate odors.
- Keep your food scraps in the fridge or free them and empty it directly into the organics cart on your service day to minimize odors.
What type of bags can I use for my compost bin?
Whether you are using a kitchen pail or directly putting your organic waste in the green bin. You should use only biodegradable bags (that meet ASTM D6400 standard or BPI certified) or use paper bags.
Will this affect my rate?
Minor rate increases were approved by City Council in April 2022; no other SB 1383 rate increases are forecasted.
What do I do with extra cardboard?
Cardboard can directly go into the recycling bin. For extra cardboard that doesn’t fit your bin please dropped it off at Republic Services’ facility at 2901 Industrial Court, Fairfield, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
When will enforcement take place?
Enforcement will take place after January 1st, 2024. If a notice of violation is sent after this date, compliance must happen within 60 days of the violation notice.
How do I use my kitchen pails?
- Set your pail in a convenient location in the kitchen.
- Line your kitchen pail with a paper or plastic liner.
- Place all food scraps and other household organics into your pail.
- Toss your bagged contents into your green organics bin.
Residents
I backyard compost, do I have to participate?
Yes, residents can continue to compost food waste on their property. Republic Service (the city’s hauler) can still collect other items that are not recommended for backyard composting, including tree branches.
What goes in the green bin?
Napkins, tea bags, paper plates, meat, bones, fruit, vegetable eggshells, and prepared food.
What does not go into the green bin?
Glass, cans, plastic, plastic bags, pet waste.
When will my green bin get collected?
To view your garbage/ recycling pick-up days please visit the GIS Map of Trash/Recycling Pick-up Schedule - You can search for your collection by entering your address.
Business
Does my business have to use Republic Services to add organic collection services?
Yes. Republic Services is the exclusive franchised hauler for the City of Fairfield. Self-hauling is allowed but an application must be submitted and approved by the solid waste team. If you are interested in self-hauling please reach out to Eyra Gonzalez, Solid Waste Compliance Coordinator at eyragonzalez@fairfield.ca.gov.
How do I request additional green bins?
You can request additional green bins from Sandra Gonzalez, recycling coordinator at SGonzalez4@republicservices.com.
Multi-Family Properties
What if my tenants don’t want to participate or contaminate the food containers with the wrong items?
Separating food scraps will be an adjustment for residents. The Solid Waste Compliance Coordinator is available to give presentations, provide support and answer any questions for residents to help them understand the program. Property managers will need to also provide information and support for tenants to comply with the program requirements. Non-compliant sites can be fined for non-participation.
I am a resident of an apartment building. My property manager won't provide us with a bin for food scraps, food-soiled, and yard waste. What can I do?
Please reach out to Eyra Gonzalez, Solid Waste Compliance Coordinator at eyragonzalez@fairfield.ca.gov or by phone at 707-428-7487.
Edible Food Generators
Are there any laws protecting businesses when donating food?
Yes, the Good Samaritan Law protects businesses from civil liability when you donate in good faith.
Do the regulations address donation dumping?
One of the requirements for the Food Recovery program is to have a written agreement with the food generators. Food recovery organizations can include language in their contract to prevent illegal dumping. If food generators continue donation dumping, organizations can terminate their relationship with the food generator.
