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How to get rid of yard waste

Of the 710 facilities we’ve verified so far, 198 mention accepting yard waste in their posted rules, 47 say they don’t or restrict them, and 150 post a specific fee. The rest don’t mention them, so call ahead.

A number of states ban yard trimmings from landfills, so many facilities send yard waste to a separate compost or mulch area, often at a lower price than trash, and sometimes free for residents. Loads usually must be free of trash, plastic bags, rocks and dirt.

Other options. Many cities collect yard waste curbside on a schedule, with limits on bundle size and branch length. Composting at home handles leaves and grass (see EPA's home composting guide). Some municipal mulch sites give away finished mulch.

Before you go. Ask about branch diameter or length limits, whether stumps cost extra, and whether paper bags are OK.

Don't want to haul it yourself? Get a junk removal quote

Junk removal crews load and dispose of it for you, usually priced by how much of the truck you fill.

Tip: get two or three quotes from local junk removal companies, and ask whether the price includes the dump fee and labor.

Bigger project? Estimate the dumpster size you need.

Find a place near you

Number = nearby verified sites that list this item as accepted.

Not listed? Search your ZIP for the nearest facility, then call to ask about yard waste.

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