Composting

Ohio law defines composting as a method of solid waste disposal using controlled biological decomposition. Composting activities occurring at a residence and those activities using less than 300 square feet at a non-residential location are not subject to Ohio’s composting regulations. 

The solid waste composting regulations require that a facility obtain a registration, license and/or permit, as applicable. Other requirements established by the program include: types of wastes that can be accepted for composting; operational requirements of the facility; and testing requirements for the finished product prior to distribution.

Solid waste composting facilities that fall into the following categories are regulated by the Division of Materials and Waste Management (DMWM).

• Class I: Mixed solid waste
• Class II: Source-separated yard waste, agricultural waste, animal waste and food scraps
• Class III: Source-separated yard waste, agricultural waste and animal waste
• Class IV: Source-separated yard waste

Laws

• ORC Chapter 3734 Solid and Hazardous Wastes

Regulations

• OAC Chapter 3745-500 Multi-program General Administration
• OAC Chapter 3745-501 Multi-program Licensing
• OAC Chapter 3745-503 Multi-program Financial Assurance
• OAC Chapter 3745-560 Composting Program

Links and Resources

• Guidance Documents
• Yard Waste FAQs
• Urban Agriculture, Composting and Zoning
• Registering as a Class IV Compost Facility
• Map of Compost Facilities

• Licensed & Registered Facilities List

  • Licensed Class I & Class II Composting Facilities
  • Registered Class II, Class III & Class IV Composting Facilities

Home Composting

Composting is nature’s way of recycling leaves, grass clippings, kitchen scraps and other organic wastes by converting them into a valuable soil amendment called compost. By composting at home, you’ll enjoy the financial benefits of free soil enrichment, reduce the amount of solid wastes sent to landfills and conserve resources.

Composting at home is very easy and practical. Once you learn the basics, you’ll be turning out lush piles of rich compost in short order. Using compost yields faster-growing, stronger plants. The chief value in using compost is the beneficial effect on soil structure. Incorporating compost into the soil improves aeration and drainage and makes the soil loose and easy to work. Compost increases the organic matter content of clay and sandy soils, allowing them to better retain water and nutrients. It also helps control erosion, proper pH balance and plant disease.

To help you get started, see Composting: Recycle the Natural Way.