Backyard Composting

Residential Compost Guidelines

Compost must be contained in a structure that is designed to limit odors as well as rodent and pest access. Compost structures must be made of impenetrable, and durable material such as wood, plastic or fiberglass, and enclosed on the top and sides.  The compost structure must not exceed a total of 150 cubic feet in volume (e.g. 10' x 5' x 3'). Wire structures, metal fencing or other open mesh materials shall not be used for composting.

Only the following materials may be placed in a compost structure: leaves, grass clippings, straw, non-woody and woody plant trimmings, untreated/unpainted sawdust, raw fruit and vegetables scraps, dry eggshells, tea bags, coffee grounds, or additional materials approved by the City.

Under no circumstances shall any of the following items be placed in a compost structure: meat, bones, grease, eggs, dairy products, whole or partial animals, feces, or inorganic materials such as rock, plastics, or synthetic fibers.

Compost must be properly maintained at all times to minimize odors and to promote effective decomposition of the materials in a safe, secure and sanitary manner. Properly maintaining the compost pile includes regularly turning the pile to increase air circulation, maintaining appropriate moisture levels and keeping the ratio of ingredients to approximately two parts green to one part brown.

A properly maintained compost pile consists of three things:

1. Air circulation - keep the air circulating by regularly turning the pile with a shovel or pitch fork.
2. Moisture - maintain appropriate moisture levels. To test the pile, pick up a handful of the mixture - if water drips out, there is too much water, if the material falls to pieces, it's too dry. Ideal conditions exist when the mixture stays in a clump for a few seconds before breaking apart.
3. The Right Ingredients - keep the ratio of ingredients consistent: two parts green to one part brown.

Contact
Public Works
Municipal Service Center | 7305 Oxford Street | St. Louis Park, MN 55426
P: (952) 924-2555 | F: (952) 924-2560 |

info@stlouispark.org