Is It Illegal to Throw Yard Waste in the Trash in Michigan?

For those who didn't get a chance to take care of their leaves and other yard waste, there will be another opportunity after the light snow in Michigan melts later this week.

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There's a good chance that you still have a layer of leaves in your yard that didn't get taken care of before this week's snow. You'll be able to tackle that project as snow is expected to melt by the end of the week.

As many Michigan cities stop yard waste pickup in November, it's important to be aware of the regulations regarding disposing of yard waste in the trash before taking on your yard waste project.

What is Considered Yard Waste?

Yard waste includes items like leaves, grass clippings, vegetable or other garden debris, shrubbery or brush, or tree trimmings, less than 4 feet in length and 2 inches in diameter.

Is It Illegal to Throw Yard Waste in the Trash in Michigan?

Yes, It’s against the law to put yard waste in a landfill in Michigan. According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, only yard clippings that are diseased, infested, or part of an invasive species control program can be landfilled.

Why is Throwing Yard Waste in the Trash Illegal?

Michigan legislation:

So much yard waste was in the waste system that there was concern it would outstrip the limited capacity of landfills unless the disposal of grass clippings and leaves was curbed or eliminated.

If your city has ended its yard waste pick-ups for the season, you can call to try and schedule a pick-up.