San Francisco enacted the most comprehensive mandatory recycling and composting legislation in the nation, being the first to require composting. It takes effect October 21, 2009.

A recent waste audit disclosed that 36% of material still being sent to landfills from San Francisco is compostable, and 31% recyclable; therefore the universal recycling and composting ordinance requires everyone in San Francisco to separate their refuse into recyclables, compostables and trash. No one may mix recyclables, compostables or trash, or deposit refuse of one type in a collection container designated for another type. All properties are required to maintain and pay for adequate refuse service. Additionally, food vendors that provide disposable food service ware or to go containers must have appropriate containers for recyclables, compostables and trash for use by customers and visitors, placed inside near a main exit.

Notifications are sent to all residents, ratepayers and businesses. The Department of the Environment partners with collectors to provide free consultation, container labels, signage, educational materials, and any further assistance needed.

Any resident or business owner/manager who fails to provide and maintain adequate service may be subject to fines, fees and liens.

Generally residential and commercial ratepayers will save money by separating recyclables and compostables and subscribing to minimum trash collection. In 2011, new rates may be proposed to fund specialized sorting technologies for hard-to-handle refuse streams.