Westchester County's Dumping Regulations

Mar 13, 2023

Improper dumping is a widespread issue that threatens the environment and public health. When waste materials, such as hazardous chemicals, construction debris, or medical waste, are disposed of improperly, they can contaminate the soil, water, and air. In Westchester County, New York, improper dumping is a significant concern, as the county is home to numerous residential, commercial, and industrial sites that generate significant amounts of waste. 


In order to address this issue, the county has established regulations governing the disposal of waste materials. Westchester county dumping regulations protect the environment and public health by ensuring that waste is handled and disposed of appropriately.


Westchester county's dumping regulations

  • Trash and recycling containers should be placed on the curb at least 5 PM the day before the scheduled collection day and removed by 9 PM on the day of collection.
  • Disposing of solid waste in any place other than an approved disposal facility is illegal. Dumping waste on public or private property or any water body is strictly prohibited.
  • Hazardous wastes such as asbestos, chemicals, and medical waste should not be disposed of in regular trash. There are special rules and procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous waste.
  • All garbage, refuse, and recyclable containers must be tightly covered or sealed to prevent the escape of odors or litter.
  • Residents and businesses must separate recyclable materials from other wastes and place them in recycling containers provided by the county.
  • Containers should not be overloaded, as this can cause littering and other environmental problems.
  • Trash and recycling containers placed in public areas such as parks and streets must be provided and serviced by the county.
  • Violators of the county's dumping regulations are subject to fines ranging from $100 to $25,000, depending on the severity of the offense.
  • The county encourages residents to participate in community clean-up programs and supports such initiatives.
  • Special rules apply to the disposal of construction and demolition waste. These materials should not be mixed with regular household garbage.
  • Residents are encouraged to report any illegal dumping they observe or become aware of to the county's environmental hotline.
  • Property owners are responsible for cleaning litter and debris from their properties and adjacent sidewalks and streets.
  • Proper authorization is required to dispose of, bury, burn, or discard garbage or waste materials on public or private land.
  • It is crucial to keep in mind that the regulations for dumping in the county are susceptible to modifications.



What items can I legally dump?


  • Household hazardous waste.
    This includes batteries, fluorescent bulbs, pesticides, and cleaning products. These items should not be disposed of in the regular trash. Instead, they can be brought to a Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF).
  • Electronic waste. This includes computers, televisions, and cell phones. Bringing them to a designated facility such as an H-MRF or participating in an Electronic Waste Collection event is recommended.
  • Prescription drugs and needles. These should not be flushed down the toilet or thrown in the regular trash. Instead, they can be brought to a designated pharmaceutical drop-off box in designated areas and pharmacies throughout the county.
  • Paint. Paint waste harms the environment and must not be disposed of in regular trash. Household Hazardous Waste Management Facilities or household paint collection events are specially designed to handle paint waste.
  • Tires. Instead of discarding them improperly, designated tire drop-off sites or retailers can safely and responsibly handle used tires, often recycling them.
  • Yard waste. This includes leaves, branches, and grass clippings. These items can be brought to a Yard Waste Transfer Station or a composting facility.
  • Household waste. This garbage, including food waste, paper, plastics, and metals, is generated by individuals or families at home. To dispose of it properly, sort it into categories and use designated containers.
  • Bulk Items. This includes furniture, appliances, and mattresses. These items can be disposed of at a transfer station or a landfill.
  • Construction and demolition debris. This includes concrete, brick, and drywall materials. These items can be brought to a construction and demolition debris recycling facility.
  • Asbestos. Disposing of it in regular waste bins or landfills is illegal. Hire licensed contractors, package and transport it safely, and dispose of it in authorized facilities.



Is there a dumping fee?


Yes. The Westchester county dumping fees depend on the weight and type of solid waste being disposed of. Some of the fees include the following,


  • A minimum fee of $10 for the disposal of up to 200 pounds of solid waste.
  • For over 200 pounds, a fee of $0.05 per pound of solid waste.
  • A fee of $10 per tire for the disposal of passenger car and light truck tires.
  • Higher fees for the disposal of certain types of waste, such as construction and demolition debris, yard waste, and asbestos-containing materials.



Why you should hire a junk removal business instead


  • Stress relief.
    Accumulated junk on business premises or personal property can take a toll on business owners and employees, lowering productivity. Hiring a junk removal service helps reduce this mental load.
  • Cost-effectiveness. If you decide to handle the junk yourself, you need to factor in the cost of time spent loading and hauling the junk, renting a vehicle, and possibly to hire help. By contrast, a junk removal company can complete the job in less time and hassle-free.
  • Space management. By removing accumulated junk, businesses can create more space for other investments or uses. Whether it's a new piece of equipment, a revamped employee break room, or more storage space, freeing up clutter can help businesses prioritize and focus on what's important.
  • Time savings. Instead of spending time and energy hauling and disposing of junk, business owners and employees can focus on core business activities that drive revenue and growth. Junk removal professionals handle the task quickly and efficiently.
  • Environmental impact. Many businesses dispose of junk in landfills, which can have a significant environmental impact. A junk removal company can often recycle or donate unwanted items, reducing landfill waste.



Are you tired of looking at all the junk cluttering your home or business in Westchester? Let us help you reclaim your space with our professional junk removal services! Our team at Westchester Junk specializes in removing all types of unwanted items, from old furniture and appliances to construction debris and yard waste.


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