City of Toledo Food Waste Drop-Off

In 2019, there was 39,621,902 tons of food waste sent to the landfill in the United States. Once landfilled, food waste takes up unnecessary space. We want to extend the life of our landfill by sending less waste. Food waste in landfills also releases methane into our atmosphere. Methane is a powerful and harmful greenhouse gas that is a major contributor to climate change.

To reduce the amount of food waste that is landfilled, we have partnered with the City of Toledo and Metroparks Toledo to create a Food Waste Drop-Off program. The Food Waste Drop-Off Program will allow residents to compost their food waste at designated locations for free.

How to Participate:

The Food Waste Drop-Off program is for residential use only. Businesses that wish to compost may reach out to GoZERO Services. 

Residents may use lidded buckets to collect and transport your household food waste. If you are in need of a compost bucket, they can always be purchased at your local hardware store. Alternatively, a food scrap pail can be purchased with Lucas Soil and Water Conservation District, which you can find here.

Acceptable Items:

• Egg Shells & Paper Packaging
• Dairy or Oils
• Beans & Nuts
• Plants
• Meat, Bones, Seafood, & Shellfish
• Fruit & Veggies
• Baked Goods & Pasta
• Coffee & Tea Grounds
• Food-Soiled Paper, Wax Paper
• BPI Certified Plastics & ASTIM 6400 Compliant Materials

Prohibited Items:

• Rocks & Stones
• Glass
• Metal
• Styrofoam
• Aluminum
• Plastic Bags
• Clothing
• Cartons - Milk & Juice
• Nitrate & Rubber Gloves
• Electronics
• Saran Wrap
• Healthcare or Hygiene Products