STEP-BY-STEP

Submit a Zero Waste Plan for your special event

Confirm your event will meet Zero Waste requirments

Environment Department

Review Zero Waste Requirements for special events for resources and details on how to comply with each step.

1

Attend a Zero Waste event training or meet with staff to understand your responsibilities

All event planners should do one of the following:

  • Attend a workshop to understand requirements for permitted events, review of San Francisco's zero waste ordinances and learn best practices to promote sustainability at your event. Sign up for the Zero Waste Event workshop
  • Meet with Department of the Environment staff to discuss the event. Email ResZeroWaste@sfgov.org
2

Arrange for Recology refuse services

Order and pay for adequate refuse collection service at least 30 days prior to the event.

You will need to submit a Recology service quote to show proof of your plan.

3

Hire an event greening company

Hiring an event greening company is highly recommended for a successful zero-waste event. It is a requirement for large events such as street fairs, music festivals, large conferences, athletic events, or events with 1000+ attendees.

Exceptions:

  • Any event that will host fewer than 1000 people is not required to have an event greener.
  • Small block parties can use existing residential Recology bins with permission of the account holder.

Find an event greener

You will need to submit a quote or contract for event greening services, if applicable, along with your zero waste event plan.

4

Plan for foodware and reusable cup requirements

If your event sells or provides food, food must be served in reusable, BPI Certified Compostable, or recyclable foodware.

Foodware and reusable cup resources

5

Make a Food Recovery Plan

If your event charges an admission price and will have 2k+ attendees, you must work with a food recovery organization to prevent edible food from going to waste and to recover the maximum amount of surplus edible food that would otherwise be disposed of.

Partner with one or several food recovery organizations:

Attach a contract with the food recovery organization to your plan. Template for SB 1383 Food Donation Agreement

You will need to attach a contract with the food recovery organization to show proof of your plan. Learn about special event requirements and resources.

6

Submit a Zero Waste Event Plan

Email your documents to ResZeroWaste@sfgov.org at least 30 days before the event. In the subject of your email, provide the name and date of your event.

Make sure to include: