The City of Austin’s Zero Waste Business Rebate is an incentive for businesses to expand and improve their waste reduction and diversion programs. Eligible businesses can receive up to $3,000 for reducing waste beyond the minimum requirements of the Universal Recycling Ordinance.
Rebate options
- Start composting and diverting organics. Eligible expenses include commercial hauling service and indoor compost collectors.
- Purchase equipment to expand your food rescue infrastructure and donate more food.
- Switch from single-use plastic items to more sustainable options; including to-go items, bags, straws and cups.
- Replacing single-use items with reusable alternatives.
- Provide indoor recycling bins to residents at multifamily properties.
Apply for the rebate
Review the rebate terms and conditions and submit a rebate application (accepted from October 1, 2021 to July 1, 2022).
Who is eligible?
The rebate is available to commercial businesses, non-profits and multifamily properties that meet all of the following criteria:
- Affected by, and in compliance with, the Universal Recycling Ordinance.
- Located within the Austin City Limits, in compliance with Austin City Code, and all tax accounts are in good standing.
Follow the rebate process
There are four steps in the rebate process. You must follow all steps in order.
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Check eligibility and apply for the rebate
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Review the rebate terms and conditions and submit a rebate application.
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Complete an in-person or virtual site visit.
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Receive application approval.
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Purchase eligible supplies and/or services
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Submit payment information and itemized receipts and invoices for pre-approved materials and services.
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Receive reimbursement check
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Please allow eight to 10 weeks from the date the payment information is submitted to receive your rebate check.
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Complete exit interview
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Complete the exit interview with City staff by phone or in person to discuss successes, challenges and lessons learned from your diversion efforts. The interview must be completed within six months of receiving final payment of the rebate funds from the City.
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Rebate limitations
- Rebate cannot exceed $3,000 per eligible location.
- Rebate funding may be used at one property per owning entity or property management company per fiscal year.
- Collection services must be provided through a licensed private hauler.
- Rebate funds are not guaranteed. Rebates are available to eligible participants on a first-come, first-served basis and there is a limited amount of funding available for each category of eligible expenses. Rebate reservations or rain checks are not accepted.
Other restrictions apply.