Locally-produced compost, made from materials diverted from the waste stream, can be obtained for free or at a small cost in San Francisco.
- San Francisco Public Works has Community Clean Team volunteer days. Many of these have mulch or compost available for volunteers. Check the Community Clean Team web page for details about specific events.They also often include the Gigantic 3 program, a service provided to residents to get rid of large and small unwanted household items; Public Works will try to reuse and recycle these items.
Other places that sometimes give away compost or mulch:
- Urban Agriculture Resource Centers - Urban Agriculture Resource Centers are a free monthly service of the SF Rec and Park Urban Agriculture Program. Free compost, soil and mulch are always available for pick up, at a different location each month.
- Bayview Greenwaste generously donates compost to the community. Compost is available for free if picked up, or can be delivered for a small fee. Pick up free compost Monday - Friday 7am-3:30pm and Saturday 7am-12 noon. For more information or to schedule a delivery. Contact Bayview Greenwaste to arrange pickup or delivery.
Related Content
I want to start composting in my backyard! How do I start? (PDF pamphlet)
Which fruit trees grow well in San Francisco?
Additional Resources
Free Urban Composting Classes - Garden for the Environment offers free Urban Composting classes on backyard and worm composting.
Photo: Phil Shaw
