How To Properly Dispose of Yard Waste Around Grand Rapids

Thanks to some below-average temperatures this week, many of us are already turning our minds to fall. The season doesn't officially start until September 22nd, but already the leaves are beginning to change, and many of Michigan's birds are migrating early. Soon you'll be raking up leaves and putting the lawn mower away.

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But the question is, what do you do with all the sticks, leaves, bush trimmings, and more as you prep your house for the winter months? You can't just put them in your garbage can by the road. However, the city offers a similar solution; you just need to know how to use it.

City Yard Waste Bin

While you can't throw yard waste in your regular waste bin, the City of Grand Rapids does offer a yard waste-specific bin. It costs a one-time payment of $30 to order and requires a $6.50 yellow tag to be attached to the bin when pick up is required. 

Waste bags and tags can be purchased at various locations throughout the city from supported vendors.

Waste Bags

Speaking of waste bags, these paper bags are a great alternative if you have leaves, grass clippings, and small twigs that need to be removed, but you're not looking to purchase a yard waste bin. Each bag costs $2.75 or comes in packs of 5 for $13.75. Again, refer to the vendor list above for details on where to purchase these items.

READ MORE: Michigan Fall Cleanup: Legal Yard Waste Disposal Guide |

Resident Yard Waste Drop Off Site

A completely free option for Grand Rapids residents only is the composting site located at 2001 Butterworth St. SW. The waste must be in a paper bag or loose and easily dumpable, not plastic bags. This is also a great option if you have branches down from a storm as well.

It is open from the first week of April to the second Friday in December. It is closed for federal holidays.

Fall hours: Monday - Saturday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Winter hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM

The same yard waste bag rules apply for what is allowed to be dumped at the compost site.