New Composting Regulations for Palatine Residents

(Click on the video from SWANCC to learn how to compost at home).

New rules for composting in Palatine were approved by the village council Monday.  

Village Manager Reid Ottesen said the new regulations will help residents to understand what best practices are when they decide to compost.  

“We decided to adjust the composting ordinance to make residents aware of appropriate locations for compost piles - and types of materials that can be used – so it’s done in a manner that doesn’t adversely affect neighbors,” Ottesen said.  

New regulations include: 

• Size of compost bins should be limited to 4x4x4 
  
• A maximum of three (3) compost bins will be allowed on residential properties. Bins need to be made of commercial grade material, and barrel type contains are also acceptable. 
  
• Yard waste should primarily make up compost piles. 
  
• Items that are prohibited include: Oils, grease and lard Meat, bones and fish. Dairy products. Human or animal waste Inorganic materials.   
  
• All compost also are required to be enclosed in a freestanding compost bin and be maintained to deter pests.   
  

Location
Compost piles and bins are allowed only in rear yards of residential properties, and must be set back from 5-feet from rear and side property lines, and 25 feet away from neighboring homes.  Other locations may be reviewed by the Director of Community Services Department.    

For more information, visit the Village of Palatine website at www.palatine.il.us.

SWANCC also is a resource for questions about composting, and workshops are offered. Visit http://swancc.org/index.php/programs/composting-workshops to learn more.