How to get rid of Yard Waste in King and Pierce Counties
Yard waste management is a never ending battle in our lush Washington State. Our beautiful green environment grows insatiably with our nearly constant rain. It’s easy to fall behind on yard maintenance for any number of reasons, and getting it back under control can be a real feat. Then there’s the issue of what to do with all that extra yard waste! Here’s how you can get rid of those pesky piles and get your outdoor space looking its best again.
Utilize your routine pick up services
I know this one’s a no brainer, but this article wouldn’t be complete without it. The City of Tacoma allows you two free 90 gal yard waste containers (and a third for $3/mo) that they’ll pick up bi-weekly. Consider ordering another bin if you don’t already have it to help get through the extra yard waste.
Most other municipalities in King and Pierce Counties charge for their yard waste haul away services, but it’s worth giving them a call to see if they’re able to offer a one time additional pick up or an additional yard waste bin.
Here’s a link to find your refuse service provider in Pierce County
Drop-Off at Local Businesses & Recycling Facilities
If you’ve accumulated more yard waste than your curbside bins can handle, or if you’re working on a large project like tree trimming or full yard clean-up, considering local drop-off facilities. Many cities have designated compost or yard waste drop-off centers where you can bring larger loads of debris. This option is typically affordable, and in some areas, it’s free for residents. Before you head out, make sure to check the types of materials accepted and any associated fees.
Here are some local spots where you can drop off your compost.
- City of Tacoma | Residents of Tacoma can drop off yard waste for free at the Tacoma Dump/Transfer Station at 3510 S Mullen St, Tacoma, WA 98409
- Cedar Grove Compost | Woodinville, Bellevue, Seattle, Maple Valley and Tacoma - They’ll accept tree trimmings, leaves, grass clippings, garden residue, landscap debris (tree trunks, stumps, limbs, and shrubs.) Check here for their recycling fees.
- Pacific Topsoil | Everett, Mill Creek, Maltby, Kenmore, North Seattle, Redmond, Issaquah, Maple Valley - They charge a recycling fee. Not all types of yard waste are allowed at every location so be sure to call or check their website here before visiting.
- Dirt Exchange | - They accept dirt, sod, mixed loads, mud, yard debris, andy woody brush among other things. Recycling fee’s vary, check here before planning your visit.
- Rainier Wood Recyclers | Covington - they take wood debris and yard waste
- King County Refuse Stations: If you’re dumping yard waste in King County, they have an $18 minimum fee up to 320 lbs, and $115 per ton. Double check here to make sure their fee's didn't change.
Here’s a handy materials list on King Couty’s website that will show you a list of businesses and organizations that will accept not only your yard waste, but many other commonly disposed of items.
Rent a Dumpster
If you have a huge project, or severely overgrown yard that will generate more yardwaste than you’re able to haul by the truck-load you could rent a yardwaste dumpster from Pacific Top Soils Container Service. They have delivery and pick up fees of around $250-300 each way, a daily rental rate of $5.50 and additional fees based on the weight of disposed items after processing.
Compost Your Organic Waste
Composting is an environmentally friendly option for disposing of yard waste. Grass clippings, leaves, and small branches can be composted to create rich soil for gardening, which could help improve the landscaping on your property depending on your timeline. Remember turning yard waste into compost is a time intensive process, so this might not be the best option if you’re cleaning up your yard to sell it soon.
Mulch Grass Clippings and Leaves
Another way to deal with yard waste is to repurpose it as mulch. Mulching grass clippings, leaves, and even small branches can benefit your lawn and garden beds by reducing weeds and retaining soil moisture. Just mow over your lawn clippings with a mulching mower or gather leaves and spread them around plants.
Burn Yard Waste (Where Permitted)
In some areas, burning yard waste may be allowed, particularly in rural or unincorporated regions. If burning is an option in your community, it can be a quick way to get rid of large piles of leaves and branches. However, always check with your local Fire Department before lighting a fire, as many cities have restrictions to prevent air pollution or reduce the risk of wildfires. You may also need to obtain a permit or follow specific safety guidelines.
Hire a Yard Waste Removal Service
If you don’t have the time or resources to manage yard waste on your own, hiring a professional landscaper or yard waste removal service can save you both time and hassle. These services will haul away yard debris like branches, leaves, grass, and even tree stumps. Professional removal ensures that large amounts of waste are taken care of quickly. Make sure to get quotes from a few different companies to ensure you're getting the best deal.
By using these methods to dispose of yard waste effectively, you can improve your home's curb appeal. Whether you choose to use municipal services, composting, mulching, or hire professionals, having a well-maintained yard will help your home make the best first impression possible.
