5 Steps for Compliant Cannabis Waste Disposal

Cannabis operators in California must follow strict regulations set by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) when handling cannabis waste. Non-compliance can result in fines, violations, or even license suspension. To help operators stay on track, we’ve outlined the five critical steps for compliant cannabis waste disposal.

Step #1 – Establish a Designated Cannabis Waste Storage Area

The DCC requires every cannabis facility to have a clearly defined cannabis waste storage area. This location must:

• Be included on your facility’s floor plans submitted to the DCC.
• Remain secure and inaccessible to the public.
• Protect waste from cross-contamination with active inventory.

This is the foundation of compliance, as regulators want to ensure cannabis waste is isolated and accounted for at all times.

Step #2 – Determine Your Disposal Method

Once waste is generated, facilities must decide how to handle it:

• Internal disposal methods like on-site composting may be an option for cultivators or manufacturers with the proper infrastructure.
• Third-party cannabis waste disposal companies like Ecowaste provide a turnkey solution. Partnering with a licensed provider ensures compliance, convenience, and proper documentation.

Most operators prefer outsourcing to professionals who understand the intricacies of cannabis regulations.

Step #3 – Track and Record All Cannabis Waste

The DCC requires full track-and-trace documentation of cannabis waste. This means every item destined for disposal must be:

• Accurately identified in your inventory system.
• Recorded with details like weight, product type, and disposal method.
• Linked to a compliant transfer process when picked up by a vendor.

Maintaining thorough records protects your license during audits and inspections.

Step #4 – Use Approved Containers in Your Storage Area

Cannabis waste must be stored in sealed containers within your designated storage area. These containers should:

• Prevent odors and leaks.
• Be clearly labeled to distinguish them from other materials.
• Stay locked or secured until pickup or processing.

Proper containment prevents regulatory issues while keeping your facility clean and professional.

Step #5 – Arrange Pickup with a Cannabis Waste Disposal Company

The final step is scheduling pickup with a licensed provider like Ecowaste. Upon collection, you’ll receive a waste manifest or equivalent documentation proving that cannabis waste was handled in full compliance with state law.

These manifests are essential to:

• Provide peace of mind that waste was disposed of properly and legally.
• Demonstrate compliance during inspections.
• Protect your business against potential violations.

Final Thoughts

Compliant cannabis waste disposal isn’t optional—it’s a requirement that directly impacts your license and reputation. By following these five steps—from secure storage to documented pickup—you’ll ensure your business operates within the strict guidelines set by the DCC.

Working with Ecowaste makes the process simple. Our team specializes in cannabis waste management and has reliably been serving the cannabis industry since 2018.