Small and Medium Composting Facilities and Operations

Overview

CalRecycle is proposing the adoption of a statewide Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) to assist local jurisdictions and facilitate the permitting process for small and medium compostable material handling facilities and operations throughout California.  

This effort is required by the Organic Waste Reduction Bill (SB 1046, Laird, 2024). SB 1046 requires CalRecycle to prepare a PEIR that creates a consistent statewide approach and evaluates the impacts of construction and operation of small and medium composting facilities and operations.

The PEIR also aims to streamline the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process by supporting a more consistent approach to siting and permitting (consistent with section 15168 of the State CEQA Guidelines). The PEIR may serve as the first-tier analysis for later, more detailed, site-specific environmental reviews as necessary.

Lead agencies and responsible agencies, such as local land use and planning agencies, local enforcement agencies, and CalRecycle, may use the CEQA document in considering subsequent discretionary actions.