Commercial Waivers

Under California state law (SB 1383), owners or occupants of commercial premises in San Luis Obispo County are required to subscribe to organics collection service from a solid waste hauler, unless granted a waiver. Waivers exist to provide accommodation to businesses that generate minimal amounts of organic waste, or lack adequate space for organic containers. Waiver reapplication is required at minimum every five years. There are two types of waivers granted by the IWMA, which waive an applicant's requirement to subscribe to organic waste collection.

De Minimis: For applicants who generate less than the specified threshold of organic materials per week.

• De Minimis 20: Applicant's total collection service is equal to or greater than 2 cubic yards (404 gallons) per week and applicant's property generates less than 20 gallons of organic materials per week.
• De Minimis 10: Applicant's total collection service is less than 2 cubic yards (404 gallons) per week and applicant's property generates less than 10 gallons of organic material per week.

Physical Space: Applicant's property lacks adequate space for organic container(s).

To apply for a waiver, applicants can fill out the form and provide all supporting documentation. Upon completion of the web form, the IWMA will reach out to the waiver applicant with next steps.  Alternatively, the owner or solid waste account holder can return the completed and signed application by mailing or visiting in person to 870 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, or by emailing completed waiver to waivers@iwma.com.

Reapplication is required, at minimum, every five years.

Commercial Organics Collection Service Waiver

Residential Waivers

Some residents of San Luis Obispo County are not required to comply with SB 1383 organic recycling mandates due to residence in a designated low-population area. If you live in one of these areas, you may choose to self-haul your organic waste, or you may still be eligible for optional green cart service. If you don't have green cart service, the best way to dispose of your organic waste is to start a home compost.