Beginning January 1, 2026, several newly enacted California laws will take effect, introducing meaningful changes to how agricultural operations manage waste, diversify income, and comply with evolving environmental and regulatory standards. Passed by the California Legislature and signed into law, these measures reflect the state’s continued focus on sustainability, operational flexibility, and long-term viability for farmers and ranchers operating in a highly regulated environment.

While many of these laws were developed in response to long-standing industry challenges, their implementation in 2026 marks a pivotal moment for producers statewide.

Expanded Authority for On-Farm Livestock Composting

One of the most consequential changes comes through Assembly Bill 411, known as the C.A.T.T.L.E. Act, which formally authorizes the on-farm composting of livestock carcasses resulting from normal mortality events. Prior to this legislation, California regulations largely restricted this practice, forcing producers to rely on rendering facilities or off-site disposal options that were often costly and logistically challenging.

Under AB 411, livestock operators may compost carcasses on their own property provided they adhere to Best Management Practices established by the California Department of Food and Agriculture in coordination with environmental and public health agencies. These practices are intended to protect groundwater, safeguard public health, and ensure proper composting methods are followed. The full bill text and legislative history can be found on the California Legislative Information website under Assembly Bill 411.

New Flexibility for Agricultural Composting and Organic Waste Management

Additional composting relief arrives through Senate Bill 279, which expands allowable on-site composting activities for agricultural organic waste. As open agricultural burning continues to be restricted statewide, growers have faced limited alternatives for disposing of orchard removals, vineyard prunings, and other organic material.

SB 279 increases the volume thresholds and operational flexibility for agricultural composting, reducing dependence on distant commercial facilities while supporting California’s organic waste diversion and climate goals. For producers, this legislation offers greater autonomy in managing organic byproducts in a manner consistent with state environmental policy. The official bill language is available via Senate Bill 279.

Agritourism and Farm-Hosted Camping Gain Regulatory Clarity

Income diversification opportunities for agricultural landowners expand further under Assembly Bill 518, which reduces regulatory barriers associated with low-impact agritourism and temporary farm-hosted camping. The law clarifies that certain short-term camping and visitor activities conducted on working farms and ranches may proceed without triggering complex land-use permitting requirements that historically discouraged participation.

As market volatility and rising production costs continue to pressure agricultural margins, AB 518 supports alternative revenue streams while preserving the primary agricultural use of the land. The bill text and legislative analysis can be reviewed at Assembly Bill 518.

Omnibus Agricultural Reforms and Long-Term Program Extensions

Broader statutory updates take effect through Assembly Bill 1505, an omnibus agriculture measure that amends several sections of the Food and Agricultural Code. Among its provisions, the law extends authorization and funding for the state’s Vertebrate Pest Control Research Program, ensuring continued research and outreach to address wildlife-related agricultural impacts.

The bill also reinforces veterinary oversight and responsible use standards for medically important antimicrobial drugs in livestock, aligning state requirements with existing federal frameworks. These changes are intended to support animal health, food safety, and regulatory consistency. The full scope of these updates is detailed in Assembly Bill 1505.

What 2026 Signals for California Producers

Taken together, these laws reflect a recalibration of California agricultural policy—one that seeks to balance environmental stewardship with practical operational flexibility. While compliance obligations remain substantial, the 2026 changes provide producers with new tools to manage waste, streamline operations, and explore diversified income opportunities within the state’s regulatory framework.

As agencies finalize implementation guidance, particularly for measures that rely on forthcoming Best Management Practices, producers are encouraged to monitor updates directly from state regulators and legislative sources. For California agriculture, 2026 represents not just a new calendar year, but a meaningful shift in how policy intersects with on-farm decision-making.