Did you know the City of Austin does commercial composting with curbside pickup? They hope to divert 90% of materials away from landfills by the year 2040. If you live within the city, you can request a free Compost Bin.
Composting is one simple way to greatly reduce landfill waste, leading to fewer methane emissions while supporting a healthier, more efficient ecosystem. But it can be hard for individuals to compost if they don’t have permanent housing or access to a yard. Commercial composting that is supported by city infrastructure makes this sustainable practice accessible to everyone.
How to request a compost bin in Austin
To request a compost bin, call 311 or email the city using this contact form.
What can you put in a compost bin?
Remember this phrase: “If it grows, it goes.”
Austin composting will collect food scraps (including meat), soiled cardboard and paper, yard trimmings and plants, and other natural fibers like untreated wood.
Note that unsoiled paper and cardboard should be placed in your recycling bin. Check the City of Austin composting guide to learn more about what you shouldn’t put in you compost bin.
How to store compost
The City of Austin recommends making sure the lid closes completely for storage and pickup. You’ll want to keep the lid closed at all times to avoid critters. It is best to store the bin in the shade and layer food scraps between yard trimmings to keep things fresh.
What if I have too much compost to fit in the bin?
You can store overflow compost in lawn and leaf bags and place them next to your compost bin for curbside pickup. Larger branches and lawn trimmings can be left loose – just make sure to stack them as neatly as possible. The City will collect up to 15 extra items.
When does the city pick up compost?
You can check the Austin Curbside Compost schedule for specific pickup times. Make sure the bin is out on the curb by 5:30 am on your pickup day. It should be at least 5 feet away from your other bins to ease the pickup process.
What happens after compost is picked up?
Home compost material is transported to a commercial composting facility, where it breaks down over 12 months. At that point, city officials say they use it in landscaping projects.
Composting and Cost Savings
Composting is completely free for Austin residents, but participating may also represent a cost savings for your household.
As you divert more material from the landfill, you can request a smaller trash bin, which will reduce trash collection costs, reflected on your monthly utility bill!
For more information about curbside composting in Austin, check out the City of Austin website or this handy PDF guide to composting in Austin.