Compost Queen is taking a major step toward zero waste and climate action goals—and you can be part of it. The City of Fort Collins has partnered with local composting service Compost Queen to launch a one-year food waste composting pilot program designed to make food recycling easier and more affordable for residents and businesses.
Here’s the deal
- Residents get food scrap recycling for as low as $5 per month at a drop-off site or $10 per month for curbside collection.
- Businesses receive an $80 per month subsidy on weekly service with a 65-gallon compost cart.
- All subsidies are made possible through the city’s Disposable Bag Ordinance funds (not general tax dollars), which are matched by Compost Queen.
Why it matters
According to the most recent Larimer County waste audit, more than 40 percent of landfill materials are organics like food scraps. By composting instead of landfilling, Fort Collins can:
- Divert an estimated 165 tons of food scraps in one year.
- Prevent more than 100 metric tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions (equal to driving 250,000 miles).
- Return valuable nutrients back to local soils, building a stronger, more sustainable circular economy.
Who can apply
- Enrollment is open to new Compost Queen customers living in Fort Collins or businesses located in the city in good standing.
- Up to 600 households and 20 businesses will be accepted.
- Any housing type is eligible, including apartments, condos, single-family homes, mobile homes and more.
Key dates
- Enrollment starts Sept. 25, 2025 (space is limited).
- Services begin Oct. 13 and continue for one year.
What you can compost
All food scraps, including meat, dairy, bones, produce and certified compostable bags. Please note that compostable packaging, cutlery and manures are not accepted.
Celebrate the launch at the Community Open House
- When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025
- Where: Ginger and Baker
Enjoy light refreshments (including a celebratory pink mocktail), hear remarks from city leaders and Compost Queen and get hands-on help enrolling. Translation and technical support will be available.
Ready to take action? Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Fort Collins’ circular economy future. Sign up today at compostqueenfc.com/fort-collins-pilot-program.
