Food Scraps Composting

Wake County offers four drop-off sites for residents who want to keep food waste out of the landfill, but don't have the capacity to compost at home. Food waste collected at the sites is transported to an industrial composting facility. Users must remove all food from packaging. Plastic bags contaminate the compost, but compostable bags are available for free at each site. 

Look for the "Food Scraps Composting" sign and black collection carts at these locations:

Food waste collection sites were chosen based on multiple factors, including available space and proximity to food waste haulers. Businesses or organizations interested in hosting a food waste collection site should email recycling@wake.gov to explore potential partnerships.

What Items Are Accepted for Food Waste Collection?

Acceptable Items

Fruits and vegetables

Cheese, dairy products, and eggs 

Breads, cereals, pasta and rice

Coffee grounds and paper filters

Tea leaves and tea bags

Cooked meats

Paper napkins and towels

Paper egg cartons and drink trays

Unacceptable Items

Plastic bags, wrappers, and film

Boxes, cans, jars or other packages

Cooking oil and liquids

Cups, plates or cutlery unless labeled "BPI Certified Compostable" or "ASTM D6400" or "ASTM D6868"

Coffee pods, produce stickers, rubber bands

Yard waste