Organic Waste Ordinance  

In February 2023 Aspen City Council adopted an ordinance that prohibits organic material, such as food, from disposal as landfill trash. Organics must be alternatively disposed of as compost, or donation for people or animals.  

To read the ordinance, click here.

This ordinance has 3 phases: 

  1. October 15, 2023, all businesses with a Retail Food License in the city limits must comply. 
  2. January 15  2026, all commercial businesses and multifamily properties will comply. 
  3. January 15, 2028, every owner or occupant of a premises within the city limits will comply. 
  1. How do I comply?
  2. What items can I compost?

Organic Waste Ordinance FAQs

1. Multifamily complexes:
A. Contact the following waste management companies to request a compost container and compost pickup service: 

B. Reach out to waste@aspen.gov  to get free indoor countertop containers and signage for all tenants

  • The city of Aspen also offers free on-site bilingual educational trainings and signage for waste rooms. 

To view the multifamily complex open house powerpoint presentation, click HERE.

2. Commercial Businesses:
Contact waste@aspen.gov for:

  • Indoor countertop compost bin
  • Signage for your employees and employee dining rooms.
  • On-site bilingual educational training.
  • Access to centralized drop-off locations downtown.
    An image displaying a map where compost bins are located

3. Restaurants:
A. Contact the following waste management companies to request a compost container and compost pickup service: 

B. Contact waste@aspen.gov for:

  • Free green Slim Jims for your kitchen and bar to separate compost.
  • Signage for your employees and employee dining rooms.
  • On site educational training (available in English and Spanish)

C. Order compostable trash bags from your major food supplier. Not a requirement, btu can help reduce mess and odor.

D. Train your staff regarding the difference between your 3 waste sources. Contact waste@aspen.gov to have city staff prove on-site bilingual educational trainings

Additional Resources: 
Contact a local food rescue service to donate non-expired foods. 

Yard Waste Recycling