The San Diego City Council has passed a construction and demolition (C&D) debris diversion ordinance in an effort to extend the life of the city’s Miramar Landfill and to help the city meet state recycling mandates. The ordinance, expected to go into effect next summer, will require applicants for building and demolition permits to pay a deposit based on their project’s square footage. After showing documentation of proper materials recycling, contractors can get a whole or partial refund.

The city’s Environmental Service Department says that most of the 400,000 tons of C&D materials accepted each year at the Miramar Landfill are recyclable. The city diverts only 45 percent of total waste from the landfill.