  The general framework for the renormalization group analysis of
self-organized critical sandpile models is formulated. The usual real space
renormalization scheme for lattice models when applied to nonequilibrium
dynamical models must be supplemented by feedback relations coming from the
stationarity conditions. On the basis of these ideas the Dynamically Driven
Renormalization Group is applied to describe the boundary and bulk critical
behavior of sandpile models. A detailed description of the branching nature of
sandpile avalanches is given in terms of the generating functions of the
underlying branching process.
