California SB 1383: What Restaurant Owners Need to Check

California restaurant owners: SB 1383 is already in effect. Start with the requirements that apply to your business.

THE STATEWIDE TARGET

SB 1383 set a target to reduce statewide organic waste disposal by 75% by 2025 compared with 2014 levels, and recover 20% of edible food otherwise disposed of. The 75% target is not a blanket reduction requirement for each restaurant. The rules did not end in 2025.

WHAT TO CHECK AT YOUR RESTAURANT

• Participate in the local organics collection program or an allowed self-haul arrangement, unless an applicable waiver or exemption covers you.

• Provide the required labeled or color-coded containers, teach staff how to sort, and check containers for contamination.

• Confirm accepted materials with your city, county and hauler. Keeping packaging dry does not automatically make it locally recyclable.

• Check whether edible food recovery duties apply. Restaurants with 250 or more seats OR a facility of at least 5,000 square feet are included in Tier 2. Covered food donors need recovery agreements and donation records; not every restaurant is a mandated food donor.

WHERE AFTERMEAL AND WRC FIT

Aftermeal teaches practical separation of food, liquids and packaging. Keep ice and liquids out of solid-waste bags and use approved collection or disposal routes.

The Water Reclamation Canister (WRC) is intended to support water recovery. Water saved is a separate measure from organic waste diverted. Installing WRC does not, by itself, establish SB 1383 compliance or authorize graywater reuse. Treatment, plumbing and intended reuse require the applicable approvals.

YOUR FIRST ACTION

Ask your local waste program or hauler for the current sorting guide. Check one disposal station and choose one improvement your team can practice this week. Record actual results rather than assuming a percentage reduction or cost saving.

Start the free Climate Warrior Action Course in Classroom and bring your questions to MEGA U.

Sources checked October 12, 2026:

https://calrecycle.ca.gov/organics/slcp/

https://calrecycle.ca.gov/organics/slcp/collection/

https://calrecycle.ca.gov/organics/slcp/foodrecovery/jurisdictions/

Edward David Jones

Aftermeal | MEGA University

0 comments

California SB 1383: What Restaurant Owners Need to Check