The City of Sacramento is giving away certified organic compost.

This compost is the final product from processed green waste collected by the City’s Recycling and Solid Waste Division. The goal of the giveaway program is to provide a free, high-quality soil amendment to City residents, while complying with regulations required by California State Senate Bill 1383.

“We launched the program in 2024, and it has been increasing in popularity each year,” said Jesa David, spokesperson for the Division. “Last year we gave out almost 1,000 cubic yards of compost to residents.”

Residents within City limits can place an order for bagged or bulk compost by using a coupon code provided on the City’s website, which will be active through December 15, 2026, or as long as supplies last.

Residents can set up a free account with the City’s compost processor Agromin and select “Compost 100” for their product and indicate if they prefer bagged or bulk compost.

The bagged compost coupon code is valid for two uses, up to eight bags per order, equaling a maximum of 16 bags of compost per residence, per year. The bulk compost coupon code is also valid for two uses, up to three cubic yards per order, for up to a maximum of six cubic yards of compost per residence per year.

The minimum quantity for any order of bulk compost for pickup is a half cubic yard. A truck or trailer is required for pickup of bulk compost. For those who prefer delivery, the minimum order amount is three cubic yards, and there is a delivery fee of $85 per order.

A half cubic yard covers about 50 square feet with a 3-inch depth.

How to use compost

Compost can be used in various ways to enhance soil quality and plant health.

• Soil amendment: Mix compost into garden soil to improve structure, fertility, and water retention.
• Top dressing: Spread a thin layer over lawns, garden beds, or potted plants to provide slow-release nutrients.
• Compost tea: Steep a handful of compost in water for a few days to create a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer. Dilute and use it to water plants.
• Seed starting mix: Combine compost with vermiculite or perlite to create a mix that supports healthy seedling growth.

Residents can find more information on the website or by emailing sacrecycle@cityofsacramento.org.