Organics management rulemaking

An informal comment period is scheduled for October 21, 2025, 12 a.m. - November 21, 2025, 11:59 p.m.

Review documents

• Draft rule language
• Rule change highlights

Beginning in 2027, a new law requires certain local jurisdictions in Washington to separate yard waste from all other waste bound for the landfill, so that it can be collected and processed to reduce its production of methane and other greenhouse gases contributing to climate change. This law expands in 2030 to include the required separation and collection of food waste.

Ecology is undertaking a rulemaking to update its organic materials management regulations in chapter 173-350 WAC Solid Waste Handling Standards to address contamination in food waste feedstocks and finished products at organic waste handling facilities. Ecology is also considering amendments to cover additional organic materials management practices.