A landscaping project can generate a lot of yard waste. While this is satisfying work and provides many people with a sense of pride in their yard, there’s always a big clean-up involved at the end.
The best way to expedite this process is to learn how to dispose of yard waste properly. Depending on the type and size of your project, there are several options on how to get rid of your yard waste. Read further to explore these options
What exactly do we mean when we say “yard waste?”
Yard waste is any organic material from yard care or landscaping used as compost. This includes grass clippings, leaves, twigs, and even tree trimmings. This type of waste differs from rubbish, which consists of inorganic materials such as glass, metal, and plastic.
Organic material, such as leaves and grass clippings, is considered yard waste because it decomposes into a soil-like substance that helps the rest of the garden grow. These organic materials can be either green waste, such as leaves, or woody waste, such as twigs and branches.
Yard waste is generated from various activities, including mowing the lawn, raking leaves, pruning trees and shrubs, and weeding the garden. It’s important to note that some waste from landscaping, such as treated wood, can be hazardous and should not be composted. Check with your local waste management authority to learn more about what can and cannot be composted in your area. So, now that we know what yard waste is, let’s explore some options for disposing of it.
#1) Rent a roll-off dumpster
When you have a large project planned, you may not be able to rely on the weekly pick-up schedule of your trash services. When your landscaping project has left you with a pile of yard waste, consider a roll-off dumpster rental.
Dumpsters are available in different sizes and styles. You can either go for a smaller, 20-cubic yard, 30-yard container, or the largest of them all, the 40-yard dumpster. Frontier Waste Solutions employs specialists that can find a dumpster to meet the needs of your yard waste disposal project.
The ideal dumpster for yard waste removal will depend on several factors, including how much waste you have, the type of waste, and whether or not you plan to recycle any of it. The flexible payment options we offer make dumpster rentals affordable for any project.
PROS:
- Dumpsters are available in different sizes to accommodate large or small projects
- You can keep the dumpster for as long as you need it
- Flexible payment options
- You don’t need to bag yard waste or haul it to the curb
- Provide a guaranteed drop-off and pick-up schedule
- You do not have to be at home when the dumpster is delivered or picked up
CONS:
- You need to have a place to store the dumpster
- You have to haul the waste to the dumpster
- Not all waste materials are accepted in a dumpster. Check with the company to see what is and isn’t allowed.
#2) Ask your local service provider about bulk brush pick-up
Contact your local municipal provider to find out if they offer yard waste pick-up services. If they dispose of furniture, they will probably have a schedule for plant waste. If they do, be sure to ask when they will be in your area since they often only operate this service on specific days.
This is an especially good option if you have a small amount of yard waste. All you need to do is place your yard waste in bags or containers on the curb, and the waste collectors will take it from there. If it’s larger than what you’re allowed you may need to pay a fee for the overage.
PROS:
- Suitable for a small volume of waste
- No need to purchase or rent any equipment
CONS:
- Only available in some areas
- There may be a limit to the amount of waste that can be collected
- The pick-up days may not coordinate with your schedule
- You have to package the waste in bags or containers
#3) Call a junk removal company
If you have a lot of yard waste and you don’t want to deal with filling a dumpster yourself or waiting for the municipality to collect it, you can hire a junk removal company. Junk removal companies specialize in removing all types of waste, including yard waste.
They do all the work for you, from removing the yard waste from your property to disposing of it properly. The prices are based on the amount and the space your waste takes up in their truck. You don’t get an accurate quote until their arrival. Once they survey your project waste, they give you an estimate based on the material and amount of waste to be disposed of.
PROS:
- You don’t have to lift a finger-the company does all the work for you
- Can any volume of waste
- Can be scheduled at your convenience
CONS:
- More expensive than other options
- You have to be at home when they arrive
- Not suitable for removing a large volume of waste
- The company may not dispose of the waste properly
#4) Burn it in a designated area
Burning is a fast approach to getting rid of yard waste. You can only burn on your property if your city/municipal laws allow it. If you have a well-designated area, such as a fire pit on your property, you should burn your yard waste in it. This is a good option if you have a small amount of yard waste. Be aware that burning yard waste is illegal in some states and municipalities, so check the laws in your area before you do it.
Click here to read Texas law on burning outdoors.
In Texas, you are permitted to burn plant waste, however, there are differences in laws that are passed at the municipal level. Some cities require you to take the yard waste out to a burn site. Those sites are only permitted to be in use with a fire marshall present.
In rural towns, you may be able to burn your yard waste on your property (limited to twice a month). To find out if your city permits you to burn on your property contact your local TCEQ office.
Click here for Dallas-Ft. Worth TCEQ contact info.
If you’re permitted to burn on your property, ensure you burn your yard waste in a contained fire pit or barrel. Do not burn it in the open air. Do it on a calm day to prevent any embers from blowing into your neighbors’ property. Always keep a fire extinguisher handy in case the fire gets out of control.
PROS:
- You don’t have to pay for anything
- Can be done at your convenience
- No need to purchase or rent any equipment
- Good for a small volume of waste
- You don’t have to take it off your property
CONS:
- It may be illegal in some states or municipalities
- Produces smoke and may be bothersome for your neighbors
- Not suitable for a large volume of waste
- It’s not good for the environment
How to Recycle Yard Waste
Recycling yard waste is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. You can recycle yard waste by composting it, using it as mulch, or taking it to a recycling center.
Composting
Composting is an environmentally-friendly way to dispose of yard waste. It involves breaking down organic matter, such as leaves and grass clippings, into nutrient-rich soil that can be used to fertilize gardens and landscapes (improve soil quality).
To compost yard waste, you will need to purchase or build a compost bin. The size of the bin will depend on the amount of yard waste you have. Once you have your bin, fill it with yard waste and cover it with a layer of soil. Aerate the compost regularly to speed up the decomposition process.
PROS:
- Good for the environment
- Can be used as fertilizer
- You can build your bin
- No need to haul the waste anywhere
CONS:
- Takes time to break down the organic matter
- Attracts insects and animals
- Smells bad if not managed properly
Turn it to mulch
Mulch is a layer of material, such as chopped leaves, wood chips, bark, or straw, that is spread over the surface of the soil to protect it from erosion, excessive moisture, and temperature extremes. It can also improve the soil’s fertility and appearance.
You can make mulch from your yard waste by renting a wood chipper from your local hardware store. Once you have the chipper, shred the yard waste and spread it over your garden beds. Use a rake or a shovel to spread it evenly.
PROS:
- Protects plants from extreme temperatures
- Helps conserve moisture in the soil
- Aesthetically pleasing
- You can do it yourself
- Good for the environment
- No need to haul the waste anywhere
CONS:
- Takes time to chop up the yard waste
- May attract insects and animals
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much will fit in a dumpster?
This will depend on the size of the dumpster and the type of waste you’re disposing of. For example, a 10-yard dumpster can typically accommodate up to 3 tons of waste (55-77 waste bags), while a 20-yard dumpster can hold approximately 6 tons of waste (120-145 full-yard waste bags). Smaller and larger dumpsters are available for rental, so be sure to choose the right size for your needs. Consult with the dumpster rental company to estimate how much waste the dumpster can hold.
What dumps accept yard waste?
Most dumps accept yard waste, but there may be some restrictions. For example, some dumps only accept yard waste that is bagged or bundled. Others may limit the amount of yard waste they will accept from each customer. Call the dump ahead of time to find out their specific requirements. The following are five dumps in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that accept yard waste:
1. Fort Worth Southeast Landfill:
https://wastebits.com/locator/location/fort-worth-southeast-landfill
The facility is located at 6288 Salt Road, Fort Worth, TX 76140. They accept yard waste that is bagged or bundled. You can reach them at 817-790-2912
2. Fort Worth:
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/code-compliance/solidwaste/dropoff
The facility has four drop-off stations, with only single-axle trailers vehicles allowed. You can visit their website to see the list of accepted items as well as their hours of operation.
3. Arlington Landfill:
https://arlingtonlandfill.com/
The facility has been in operation since the 1960s serving over 2.5 million people. It provides responsible waste disposal for both residential and commercial customers. They accept yard waste that is bagged, bundled, or in a can.
4. Living Earth:
They only accept organic waste such as yard waste, prepare it for compost, and sell it to local farmers.
Can I mix yard waste with other landscaping trash?
Accepted items vary by location, but you should generally not mix yard waste with other types of trash (e.g., household garbage and construction debris). Doing so can contaminate the load and result in additional fees. Be sure to check with the dumpster rental company or landfill ahead to find out what items are accepted.
Tips for getting rid of yard waste
To avoid accidents and injuries, keep the following safety tips in mind when loading a dumpster with yard waste:
- Wear gloves and long pants to protect your skin from cuts and scrapes.
- Use a rake or shovel to scoop up the waste rather than your hands.
- Lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid strain.
- Place larger pieces of waste in the dumpster first, followed by smaller pieces.
- Avoid overloading the dumpster; if it is too full, ask the rental company to empty it and provide a new one.
Yard waste disposal is important in keeping your property clean and tidy. There are many ways to dispose of yard waste, including mulching, composting, and dumping. Be sure to choose the method that best suits your needs. And always remember to follow safety precautions when handling and loading yard waste, as accidents can easily happen.
