For more information, please call 385-468-6370 or check out their website SLC Landfill
Community Composting
Composting turns everyday food scraps and yard debris into nutrient-rich soil. Use this guide to get started at home and help reduce landfill waste.
Why compost?
Composting helps keep valuable organic material out of the landfill and turns food scraps, leaves, grass clippings, and other compostable materials into usable soil enrichment.
It is a practical way for residents to support a cleaner, more sustainable community from home.
Keep valuable organics out of the landfill.
Create natural fertilizer for gardens, lawns, flowers, and shrubs.
Help reduce landfill impacts from decomposing organic waste.
What to Compost
Use the guide below to help keep your compost pile clean, effective, and free from materials that should not be included.
Compostable Materials
- Fruit and vegetable scraps, including peels, cores, and stems
- Coffee grounds and paper filters
- Grass clippings and dry leaves
- Stale bread, rice, and grains
Do Not Compost
- Meat, dairy, or bones
- Oily or greasy foods
- Pet waste or litter
- Plastic, glass, or metal items
How to Compost
Start with a simple setup, keep the material balanced, and allow natural decomposition to do the work.
Choose a Spot
Select a sunny, well-drained outdoor area or use an indoor composting bin.
Layer Materials
Alternate greens, such as fresh scraps and grass, with browns, such as dry leaves and cardboard.
Maintain Moisture and Air
Keep the pile damp like a wrung-out sponge and turn it every 1 to 2 weeks for aeration.
Let Nature Work
Over time, the material will become dark, crumbly compost that can be used for soil enrichment.
How to Use Finished Compost
Finished compost can be used in several ways around the home landscape.
Mix into soil
Blend compost into garden soil to support healthier plants.
Spread around plants
Apply compost around flowers and shrubs to help retain moisture.
Top dress lightly
Use a thin layer on lawns to encourage growth and improve soil quality.
Tips for Success
Looking to buy compost instead of making it? Check local facilities for current pricing and availability. Compost may be available at the Salt Lake Valley Landfill for purchase. Bring your own container and shovel when required by the facility.
Composting Help
Use these quick reminders to keep your compost pile working properly.
What is the best mix for composting?
Use a balanced mix of greens, such as food scraps and grass clippings, and browns, such as dry leaves and cardboard.
How wet should compost be?
Compost should be damp, similar to a wrung-out sponge. If it is too dry, add water. If it is too wet, add dry leaves or cardboard.
How often should compost be turned?
Turn the pile every 1 to 2 weeks to add air and help the material break down more evenly.
When is compost ready to use?
Compost is typically ready when it is dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell.