City of Denver expands composting service to include food waste

The City of Denver is expanding its curbside composting program to accept food-soiled items, including pizza boxes and coffee filters. The change aims to reduce trash and divert more waste from landfills, with participation open to eligible residents and participating businesses.

What changed

Denver’s compost collection will start accepting food-soiled items, such as pizza boxes, greasy paper, coffee filters, and eggshells, in addition to previously accepted yard waste. The expansion broadens what residents can place in the green cart, alongside the existing rules for recyclables and garbage. The program is run by the city’s solid waste department, and participation requires using approved compostable bags or no bags in some systems, depending on local guidance.

Who is affected

Residents who use the city’s curbside compost program will benefit from a broader range of items they can recycle into compost. Small businesses and multi-family buildings that participate in the program may also be affected, as they can reduce trash volumes by diverting food scraps and other organics to composting. People who do not currently participate might be encouraged to join to help reduce landfill waste. The city notes that food-contaminated items should be placed in appropriate containers to avoid contamination of the compost stream.

Practical next steps for participation

To participate, residents should check if their address is part of the city’s curbside program and review which items are accepted. Start by rinsing items when feasible, separating yard waste from food scraps, and using any provided compostable bags if required by the program rules. Residents can place compostable items in the green cart as directed by city guidance and ensure that non-compostable materials go into the garbage or recycling according to local rules. If you’re unsure, contact the city’s solid waste department or visit the official Denver government website for up-to-date instructions and any changes to pickup days or restrictions.

Limits and questions

The expansion applies to city-operated curbside compost programs. It may not cover private or third-party composting services outside the city system. Some items may still be restricted or require special handling, and guidelines can vary by neighborhood or building type. If you have questions about specific items or collection rules, consult official Denver solid waste resources or call the city’s waste services line for precise guidance.

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