Watching
Virginia organic waste law
Virginia has no statewide requirement for businesses. A 2026 state law (Va. Code § 15.2-937.1) lets each city and county require large food waste generators to separate organics, but nothing applies to a business until its locality adopts an ordinance. Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax have voluntary programs only. We are watching it.
At a glance Watching
Read the official rules (opens in a new tab)
- The law
- None
- Local rules
- Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax: voluntary only
✦ Keep an eye on
What’s changing
2026: SB 226, now Va. Code § 15.2-937.1 (2026 Acts ch. 1121, 1122), lets localities require large organic waste generators to separate organics. Businesses have no duty until their locality adopts an ordinance. Under a local ordinance, generators of 1 ton/week or more must compost at a permitted facility within 30 miles unless it refuses in writing; after a first warning, fines are $250, $500 and $1,000 (each day a separate violation); hardship waivers available.
01 / Our job
What Melly’s handles
- Which rules apply to each of your Virginia locations
- File the paperwork for you
- Set up pickup or a compliant hauler
- Keep your records current so you are ready if an inspector asks
✦ Where this comes from
Sources
Last checked October 30, 2026. Laws change. If something here looks out of date, tell us.
These are plain-English summaries for general information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source.
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