Recology refuse service + Mandatory Recycling & Composting + food-ware ordinances: San Francisco restaurant guide
SF Environment / Recology
What it is
Every business must have compost, recycling and landfill service sized for its volume and separate its waste; restaurants must use compostable or recyclable to-go ware (no polystyrene foam), give out single-use accessories and straws only on request, and charge at least 25¢ per checkout bag.
When a restaurant needs it
Before opening; every restaurant, bar and café.
How to apply
Open a Recology commercial account (three-stream service), train staff with the SF Recycles what-goes-where guide, and switch purchasing to compliant food ware.
Documents you’ll need
- Service address and bin sizes
- Compliant food-ware purchasing list
- Signage on bins
Good to know
Recology is the City's only hauler ((415) 330-1300). Compostables and recyclables may not go in the trash; fines are a last resort but inspections happen.
Official source
SF Environment — zero waste for restaurants and cafes · Food Service and Packaging Waste Reduction Ordinance
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.