Special Event Waste Management
If you are planning an event in Sacramento, you may be required to submit a waste management plan to comply with City Code 13.24.460 and state diversion laws. This page explains who needs to submit, what to include, and how to send your documents correctly.
Special Event Waste Management Requirements
Who needs to submit
- Events with 500 or more people (including staff, vendors, and volunteers) must submit a Waste Management Plan.
- Events with 2,000 or more people that charge admission or participation fees must also submit a Post-Event Diversion Report within 60 days after the event.
Deadlines
- Waste Management Plan: 30 days before the event
- Post-Event Diversion Report: 60 days after the event
Reminder: Submit ONE complete packet with your plan, map, and proof of service. Incomplete packets will not be reviewed and will be rejected.
Assistance available
City staff are happy to meet with event organizers in advance of the waste plan submission to answer questions and provide advice on best practices.
Contact us at
wastecompliance@cityofsacramento.org
or 916-808-4846.
How to submit
All required materials must be submitted together in one complete packet. Do not send separate files in multiple emails.
Send your packet to: wastecompliance@cityofsacramento.org
Your packet must include:
- Cover sheet and checklist
- Completed Waste Plan (fillable PDF)
- Event site map showing:
All guest receptacles (trash, recycling, organics if food is present)
Any bins or roll-offs used by staff or vendors oFood areas and restrooms
Labels or a legend for clarity - Proof of service for each waste stream (such as signed hauler agreements, self-haul confirmation, or back-haul contact information)
Submissions missing required documents will be rejected. Permits are not issued until a complete packet is approved.
Step-by-Step
1. Determine if your event qualifies
• 500 or more people = Waste Plan required
• 2,000 or more paid attendees = Post-event report required
• If food is served or allowed, organics collection is required.
2. Plan your service
• Trash and recycling are mandatory for all events.
• Organics bins are required when food is involved.
• Co-locate bins and use state-mandated colors (black/gray for trash, blue for recycling, green for organics).
3. Assemble your packet
• Use the cover sheet to make sure all required documents are included.
• Include your map and proof of service.
• Sign and date the certification statement.
4. Submit the packet
• Email the entire packet to wastecompliance@cityofsacramento.org
• Submit at least 30 days before your event.
5. On-site requirements
• Place bins as shown on your map.
• Keep access clear for haulers.
• Monitor bins to prevent overflow.
• Use approved colors and signage.
6. After the event (if applicable)
• Submit the Post-Event Diversion Report within 60 days if required.
| Timeline Overview | |
|---|---|
| Timeframe | Action |
| 30 days before event | Submit complete packet |
| Review period | City review and approval |
| Event day | Implement your service plan |
| 60 days after event | Submit post-event report if required |
Common mistakes
- Sending documents in separate emails
- Forgetting to include a site map
- Not labeling all bin locations on the map
- Missing signed hauler agreements or proof of service
- Submitting after the deadline
- Colocation of garbage and recycling
Use the cover sheet checklist to make sure everything is included before you send it.
Enforcement
City staff may inspect events to verify compliance. Failure to submit a complete packet on time may result in permit delays, loss of eligibility for future events, or fines.
City Code 13.24.460 applies to all special events.
Reminder: Submit ONE complete packet with your plan, map, and proof of service. Incomplete packets will not be reviewed and will be rejected.