Composting - Public Works

Composting
What is Compost?
Compost is a dark, crumbly, sweet, earthy-smelling form of decomposing organic matter.
Composting is the natural breakdown of organic materials by living organisms. In a meadow or on the forest floor, dead plants decay and many of the nutrients that plants take up during their life are released back into the soil forming compost.
Why Compost?
Backyard composting is a simple, convenient way to turn yard waste into a rich soil amendment. It greatly reduces the volume of yard trimmings and food scraps normally disposed of and produces a rich soil amendment that:
Reduces the need for commercial fertilizers and pesticides
Improves drainage and loosens heavy clay soils
Conserves moisture in light sandy soils
Produces healthier plants and slows evaporation, which reduces water usage
Saves money on fertilizers and water
Reduces the need for City collection of yard waste
Burbank's Residential Backyard Composting Program
- Burbank residents only; 1 unit per household
- Email requests at compost@burbankca.gov
- Schedule a pick up time (Available Mon-Fri 10a-4p)
- Pick up at the Burbank Recycle Center's offices at 500 S. Flower
- Bring I.D. showing address
- New residents can bring their I.D. and a recent utility bill to show Burbank address
- Fill out composting card
Homegrown Composting Workshops: Attending Burbank Recycle Center's compost workshop webinar is not required but highly encouraged for a better composting experience!