Mandatory Zero Waste Event Training

This workshop will cover updates on new requirements for events, a review of San Francisco's zero waste ordinances, an overview of the events auditing process, and best practices to promote sustainability at your event. Learn how to comply with zero waste event requirements, introduce reusable foodware at your events, and network with other event producers & vendors!

Event producers can attend a Zero Waste Events Training. SF Environment is planning two Zero Waste Event Trainings for 2026. 

When the workshop dates are scheduled, we will post a link to register for each workshop on Eventbrite. 

Follow the San Francisco Environment Department on Eventbrite to be notified of upcoming events.

If you cannot attend a mandatory Zero Waste Events Training before your event date, please email [email protected]. 

We are here to help you meet San Francisco's Zero Waste Event Requirements and complete your Zero Waste Event Plan.

Who Should Attend:

• Event producers, caterers, clean-up crews, and other vendors
• Applicants of street closure permits with SFMTA or The Port
• Applicants of facility use permits with the Recreation and Parks Department or any other City of San Francisco permitting agencies**

Concepts covered include:

• Mandatory Composting and Recycling Requirements
• Event foodware, packaged water, and hydration stations
• Recology event services and debris box rentals
• Separation compliance (Sorting and contamination protocols)
• Event greening services
• Food waste reduction and food recovery at events
• Discussion on single-use and reusable foodware at events
• Implementation of the 10% reusable cup requirement (Effective 2020)
• Zero Waste Resources for Event Producers
• Implications of a failed event refuse audit

Implications of a Failed Event Refuse Audit:

Please take proactive action to ensure proper recycling and composting separation and waste reduction at your event to prevent a failed refuse audit. Event producers with failed refuse audits are subject to the implications below: 

• Removal of Diversion Discount (Recovery Discount): The recovery discount is a cost reduction based on an event's recycling and composting rate. In instances of excessive contamination, the recovery discount will be revoked.
• Submit Zero Waste Event Plan: The Zero Waste Event Plan is a worksheet outlining a corrective course of action. The Plan must be submitted to [email protected] at least 7 days in advance of the event producer's next event. You can access the Zero Waste Plan here.

**This training is required for all event producers applying for permits through SF Recreation and Parks Department, Port of SF, SFMTA, or any other City of San Francisco agency. Event producers wanting to know how to comply with SF legislation related to events are also invited.

A Zero Waste Event Certification will be provided upon request. Networking opportunities will follow the training.

Contact the Zero Waste team or call (415) 355-3700 for more information.

Additional Resources
Create your own recycling and composting signs
Zero Waste Checklist for Events 
Restroom Paper Towel Compost Sticker (PDF)
Approved Recyclable and Compostable Food Service Ware (PDF)

Please contact the Zero Waste team or call (415) 355-3700 for more information.