Residential Compost/Mulch Giveaway Events

Please check back regularly for information regarding future events.  To be informed of future compost/mulch giveaway events or provide feedback, please fill out our survey.

Dates: The following first Saturdays

September 5, 2026

• Product Available: Organic Mulch

• Product Available: Organic Compost

October 3, 2026

• Product Available: Organic Compost

November 7, 2026

• Product Available: Organic Mulch

Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Or until supplies last)

The entrance to the event will close at noon, or earlier if supplies are exhausted 

Location: Entrance from 1044 Knox Ave, San Jose, CA 95122

• City of San José Residents ONLY
• This service is only for residents—no commercial use is allowed
• 50 GALLONS MAXIMUM PER HOUSEHOLD (ex: 10 of the plastic 5-gallon buckets or 4 of the reused soil bags) 
• Bring your own containers, gloves and shovels
  • Extra shovels and burlap bags for residents’ use are not guaranteed 
• The self-serve compost hub is on a first-come, first-serve basis, “as is” and with all faults
• Only two cars are allowed at the compost/mulch pile at a time
• Disclaimer and Product Waiver

Please note:

• Compost is an amendment and should not be used as soil. Using compost without enough soil risks long-term plant damage, due to the high concentration of nutrients in compost. Mix about 20-50% of your compost with native or potting soil, depending on your planting needs.

• Mulch is best used to cover soil to help retain moisture. Keep mulch a few inches away from plants to avoid stem rot and other damage

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