In September 2016, Governor Brown signed into law Senate Bill 1383 (SB 1383), establishing methane emissions reduction targets in a statewide effort to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants. SB 1383 establishes targets to:

• Achieve a 50% reduction in the level of the statewide disposal of organic waste from the 2014 level by 2020 and a 75% reduction by 2025.
• Recover not less than 20% of currently disposed food for human consumption by 2025.

SB 1383 requires jurisdictions to implement mandatory organic waste collection and recycling in this statewide effort to divert organic waste from landfills. 

Upland residents are required to separate their food waste from other trash and recycling due to State Mandate SB 1383. Burrtec is now conducting inspections of residential trash bins. These inspections have become mandatory, and we want to ensure that our community complies with the regulations.

Here are some important details regarding the inspections:

1. Pre-inspection Notification: Before conducting an inspection, Burrtec will be sending a postcard to all households, notifying you of the upcoming inspection date. Please keep an eye on your mailbox for this notice.
2. Inspection Process: During the inspection, Burrtec's designated personnel will examine the contents of your trash bin to ensure that all waste materials are correctly sorted and disposed of according to the state guidelines.
3. Tagging System: If the inspection finds any contamination or improper sorting in your trash bin, a tag will be left at your door. This tag will explain the issue and provide guidance on how to rectify it. We encourage you to take prompt action to address any concerns.

It is essential that we all work together to maintain a clean and sustainable environment. Proper waste disposal plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter and thank you for helping us adhere to State Mandate SB 1383.

If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact the Solid Waste Division, (909)291-2967.

Food Waste Recycling FAQs

Am I required to participate? 
Yes. This is a California law that requires all residents, multi-family tenants, and commercial businesses to participate in food waste recycling in order to comply with SB 1383.

What type of plastic bags can I use? 
Any color plastic bag is acceptable. Bags do not need to be compostable or biodegradable, and we encourage you to reuse plastic bags you may already have, such as grocery bags, produce bags, and bread bags. Please do not use paper bags, as these tend to tear.

What is the benefit of recycling food waste?
Your recycling efforts contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from landfilled organic waste. This includes methane, a greenhouse gas 80 times more potent that carbon dioxide. 

I already backyard compost, do I have to participate?
We encourage you to continue backyard composting. Organic items not suitable for backyard compost can be recycled through this program.

Can I use my garbage disposal instead?
No need to change your current garbage disposal use. Food currently being discarded in your trash barrel should now be bagged and placed in your green waste barrel.

What items are acceptable?
Fruits, vegetables, cooked meats, cooked seafood, dairy, eggshells, bread, food scraps, food soiled paper, plate scrapings, and expired food.

What items are not acceptable? 
Trash, styrofoam, liquids, glass, plastic, metal, diapers, pet waste, electronic waste, and hazardous waste.