Information for Businesses

Current Rates

Current commercial trash, recycling, and organics rates can be found on the Waste Management of Alameda County website.

Collection Services & Sorting Guide

Collection services and information on material sorting are included in this brochure. Want to know whether something can go in the recycling or compost? Check out the Re:Source tool to find out more!

Legislation & Requirements

All commercial businesses are required to subscribe to trash, recycling, and organics service or have an approved waiver. Details on requirements for businesses can be found at StopWaste.org. A few recent changes to local and state legislation are highlighted below:

Alameda County Plastic Bag Ban
As of November 2017 all retail stores, eating establishments, and food delivery services in Alameda County are prohibited from using single-use plastic carryout bags at checkout. More details on the ordinance and results can be found here.

Single Use Foodware Only Upon Request (AB 1276)
AB 1276 has come into effect, expanding the “straws on request only” law to now include single-use cutlery, condiment packs and chopsticks at retail food operations and food delivery platforms. Learn more about the bill and requirements from our partner StopWaste.

Eco-Foodware Ordinance/Polystyrene Ban
Since 2008 Emeryville has banned the use of extruded polystyrene takeout containers (including Styrofoam) by food vendors and required use of reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives. Find more here. 

Organics Reduction and Recycling Ordinance (SB 1383)
Beginning January 2022, all commercial generators of organic material must subscribe to organic pickup service or have an approved waiver. Additional provisions require indoor containers for all three streams and notification to employees on proper sorting. Details and waiver applications can be found at the StopWaste website and applications for free indoor bins can be found below.

Free Resources for Businesses

Free Indoor Commercial Waste Sorting Containers

The City of Emeryville offers FREE indoor recycling and compostables containers, as part of your waste diversion program at your business. Inquire with Environmental Programs at 510-596-3795, zerowaste@emeryville.org

• Container Menu
• Commercial Request Form

Free Signage and Training

Free signage for your business and training on proper sorting and recycling/composting techniques for your employees may be available. Contact zerowaste@emeryville.org for more information.

Green Business Certification: Alameda County Green Business Program

The City of Emeryville helps businesses by certifying the waste and storm water portion of their application. For more information on waste reduction and the Green Business Program email zerowaste@emeryville.org or contact Carolina Miranda, carolinam@cultivatingcapital.com, 510-485-9164.