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New ordinance clears the way for community composters to operate legally, transforming food waste into nutrient-rich soil while reducing landfill use and emissions.
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins’ legislation to allow environmentally responsible, community-based composting operations to legally operate in the County was adopted today by the Board of County Commissioners.
This new ordinance clears the way for small-scale composters—those turning local food scraps into nutrient-rich soil—to operate within Miami-Dade’s regulatory framework while upholding strong environmental protections. The measure addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing the County: an overwhelmed waste system and landfills nearing capacity.
“Miami-Dade County faces a serious solid waste problem, and we must pursue smart, sustainable solutions,” said Commissioner Eileen Higgins. “Composting is one of the most effective local tools we have to reduce waste, fight climate change, and enrich our soil. This legislation empowers community composters who are already helping us do exactly that.”
Under the new ordinance, composting operations in agricultural zoning districts will be able to apply for approval through a new administrative process—which is already being created—rather than a costly and lengthy public hearing. This change makes it possible for small-scale composters to establish and grow their operations while maintaining compliance with environmental, building, and solid waste regulations.
Miami-Dade has the potential to divert more than 30,000 tons of organic waste annually through composting—food scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. By doing so, the County reduces methane emissions, lowers disposal costs, and supports local soil health and agricultural resilience.
“This is about clearing the path for local solutions that work,” added Higgins. “We can keep sending food scraps to overflowing landfills, or we can support the people and practices turning that waste into something valuable. This ordinance invests in healthier soil, stronger local food systems, and a more climate-resilient Miami-Dade.”
Commissioner Higgins highlighted examples of successful local efforts, including Compost for Life, which transforms food waste into nutrient-rich compost used by partners like Vizcaya Museum and Gardens to support sustainable horticulture practices. Compost for Life also donates compost to the Green Haven Project, a community garden in Overtown that grows fresh food for families in need.
“This ordinance recognizes composting for what it truly is: a climate solution, not just waste management. We’re transforming leftovers into life, restoring soil, and empowering communities to regenerate Miami-Dade from the ground up,” Francisco Torres, CEO of Compost for Life.
By enabling small, community-driven composting operations to thrive, Miami-Dade County takes an important step toward a circular economy—one that reduces waste, strengthens local agriculture, and empowers residents to be part of a sustainable future.
