Set Up Indoor Bins
All businesses, nonprofits, institutions, schools, and multifamily properties in California must place color-coded and labeled recycling and compost bins next to all garbage bins.
- Group color-coded bins into stations.
Use green for compost, blue for recycling, and black or gray for trash/landfill.
(Not required in restrooms). - Label bins with stickers.
Submit a request for free indoor bin stickers to be mailed to your site. - Place signs above each bin.
Click here to create custom signs or download pre-made signs. - Use the correct bags.
Check here to see which bags are allowed in your city.
Free Resources
Free Indoor Bins
StopWaste partners with two indoor bin vendors to provide a variety of green containers and lids, up to $500 per approved site. Apply here.
Cities that offer additional free indoor bins are listed below:
Purchasing Indoor Bins
Many janitorial supply companies offer indoor bins. You can also order a wide range of containers and lids from our partner vendors:
- BradyIFS (formerly Cole Supply Company)
www.BradyIndustries.com – (707) 745-8900 - Cogent Solutions and Supplies
www.CogentSupplies.com – (800) 237-3103
Signs and Posters
The more closely your signs reflect the materials actually generated at your site, the easier it will be for staff and customers to sort correctly.
Make customized wall signs or Download pre-made signs
Many cities also offer pre-made signs and posters:
Free stickers for indoor bins
Free stickers are available to label indoor bins. Order two stickers for each bin so you can label two sides, in case bins get turned around.
Which bags/liners are okay for my business' indoor bins?
Select your city below to learn which types of bags you can use to line your indoor compost and recycling bins.
Note for multifamily properties: This resource currently provides information for businesses and institutions. Check with your service provider to learn what bags are allowed for residents.
Quick guide to setting-up indoor bins
Use this step-by-step guide and worksheet to help determine the indoor compost, recycling, and landfill containers and signs needed to set your site up for success.
Next Step: Help tenants, employees and contractors sort materials correctly
