Food scraps, spoiled food, food-soiled paper – collectively known as organics or organic waste – comprise around 25% of the waste inside an average Falls Church resident's trash cart.
Instead of throwing away organic waste as trash, separate it for composting so it can enrich our environment, not damage it.
Residents of the City of Falls Church have long been among the top recyclers in Virginia. And thanks to the early popularity of compost pilot programs, we are the first jurisdiction in the state to offer such a wide variety of composting options. Give composting a try today and realize we are not that far away from a zero waste future!
Food Waste Drop-Off
Welcome to the City of Falls Church’s 24-hour community compost program, the first program of its kind in the DC region.This unique composting opportunity provides members of the community with a place to drop off food waste and participate in an environmentally-friendly form of waste disposal.
Who Can Use the Bins?
These bins are available to anyone who lives or works in our community. We ask participants to review our compost rules just to make sure everyone using the bin knows what can and can’t be composted. Early success hinges on our accuracy. All bins are unlocked and open to the public for use at any time, we just ask that you please take all trash with you.
Cost
Participation is free! The hauling and composting is provided by the City's contractor, Veteran Compost.
Location
The City currently has one community drop-off location. It is located in back of the City Hall and Community Center parking lot (300 Park Ave), in a fenced enclosure next to the tennis courts. Enter the enclosure using the sliding door.
Items Allowed in Compost:
Dairy, Cheese
Meats, Seafood, Bones
Compostable Liners, Kitchenware
Fruits
Vegetables
Nuts
Coffee Grounds
Breads, Cereals, Pasta, and Rice
Egg Shells
Flowers
Paper Towels and Napkins (kitchen only)
Uncoated Paper Bags and Plates (food debris okay)
Tea Bags and Loose Tea
Curbside Food Waste Program
We are excited to announce the City's first ever curbside food waste collection service!
Learn how to compost at home! The City offers two classes to help residents get started - a backyard composting workshop and a build your own composter class, Visit our compost workshops page for current offerings.
Special Office for New Compost Collection Customers
New customers will receive starter packs that include a kitchen caddy and pack of compostable liners. Email recycling@fallschurchva.gov or call 703-248-5466 (TTY 711) with any questions.