Information provided by City of HMB Newsletter:

California Senate Bill 1383 is a State law aimed at reducing methane emissions by diverting organic waste from landfills into recycling activities and food recovery organizations. Starting this month, the City of Half Moon Bay will transition from its earlier education efforts around this law, to enforcement activities. The City recently sent a letter to all residents and businesses informing them of this State law. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Requirements for Residents:

• Separate organic waste (food scraps, yard waste) and recyclables from regular trash.
• Choose between subscribing to Republic Services or self-hauling (requires a waiver and record-keeping).
• Noncompliance can result in fines of $100–$500, on top of Republic’s contamination fees for severe cases.

Important Steps for Businesses:

• Provide color-coded bins for recycling and organics.
• Educate employees on waste sorting and ensure all waste is properly sorted.
• Some businesses must donate surplus edible food where applicable.
• Fines for noncompliance range from $100–$500 per violation.

Do you operate a business that needs help understanding and fulfilling these requirements? The City is hosting an informational seminar to help:

• When: January 15, 2025, 3:00 p.m.
• Where: Opportunity Center of the Coastside, 637 Main Street, Half Moon Bay

Visit the City’s SB 1383 Requirements web page for full details, resources, and tips to stay in compliance. If you have any questions you can email [email protected] or call 650 726 7177. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener Half Moon Bay!