Waste Diversion at Large Event Facilities
The State of Illinois enacted the Large Event Facilities Act, 415 ILCS 190/1, (the Act), to require recycling and composting at large event facilities throughout the state. In accordance with state regulations, Cook County has since updated its code to reflect these changes. Sections 30-921 and 30-922 now require all venues that have a legal capacity or occupancy of more than 3,500 persons as of Jan. 1, 2026, to divert all recycling and organics from “back of house” locations and deliver them to properly permitted facilities to manage the waste streams. Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, these same venues will also be responsible for recycling and organics diversion for “front of house” waste collection.
Additionally, large event venues are required to submit quarterly reports to Cook County. Reports include details about the diversion of waste streams as well as landfilled material.
Reporting Due Dates:
April 30, 2026: Quarter 1 (Jan. 1 - March 31)
July 31, 2026: Quarter 2 (April 1 - June 30)
Oct. 31, 2026: Quarter 3 (July 1 - Sept. 30)
Jan. 31, 2027: Quarter 4 (Oct. 1 - Dec. 31)
Click here to download the Large Event Venue Waste Diversion Report Form. Email the completed form to wasteandrecycling@cookcountyil.gov.
Click here to view a list of service providers that support waste diversion at large event facilities.
Click here to view a list of service providers that support waste diversion at large event facilities.
Click here to view a list of service providers that support waste diversion at large event facilities.
Before purchasing any “compostable” materials, all venues should confirm that their processor, compost facility or anaerobic digestor accepts those materials. All “compostable” materials are not equal and may not be accepted at every location.