Compost and Organic Waste

white garbage truck dumping trash at pitkin county landfillOrganic material includes food waste, compostable paper and certified compostable products, and yard waste.

City of Aspen set goals to reduce organic material from the landfill by 25% by 2025 and by 100% by 2050.  

When buried, these materials generate a harmful greenhouse gas called methane. 

 

Waste Reduction Resources


  • Free Countertop Compost Containers are available for pick up inside Aspen City Hall near the first floor entrance 427 Rio Grande Place in Aspen.  

  • In mid February, 2026 city of Aspen residents can apply for a $200 discount on an indoor compost machine.  More details to come in February.

  1. How do I compost?
  2. What can I compost?
  3. What is a compostable product?
  4. Where can I donate food?

There are a few options for residents who want to compost in Aspen.

1. You can drop off your organics at the Rio Grande Recycle Center located in Aspen on Rio Grande Place across from Obermeyer Place. To participate, please fill out this survey.

2. Contact a local provider to collect compost at your curb for a fee. There are two local providers: 

3. Drive to Pitkin county solid waste center and drop it off for free.

If you need a collection receptacle here are some options: 

  • Pick up a free countertop compost container at City Hall on the first floor, 427 Rio Grande Place, Aspen. 

Picture of countertop Compost Collection Pail

  • Pitkin County residents may pick up their free 6.5 gallon bucket at the Pitkin County Landfill. 
  • Paying customers receive a curbside bucket from their local compost collection provider. 

Restaurant or business owner? Visit our Organics Waste Diversion page to learn more about the Organics Ordinance and how to comply.