Mounds of leaves and other garden debris can attract mice and other pests. Cleaning up yard waste not only makes your property aesthetically pleasing, but also prevents it from becoming a breeding ground for these unwanted rodents. Learn how to safely and conveniently deal with the waste. 

Yard Waste Disposal Tips

A hard day’s garden work can result in piles of yard waste. You rake all day, but where do you put the leaves? Much of this yard waste is not allowed to be dumped in your regular trash bins – municipal laws often forbid it. As an environmentally conscious person, you definitely do not want to put the waste into dozens of plastic trash bags either. So how do you dispose of it all?

There are options for using your yard waste on-site. For example, you could use your lawn clippings and dead leaves to mulch your garden, providing valuable nutrients to your soil and plants. You could also compost the green waste (excluding pet waste) with your food waste. Not only will this feed your garden, but it will also help reduce the amount that ends up in our landfills.

Some cities have landscape waste collection sites or composting centers that accept organic materials (natural waste) from residents. Some of these sites require that you sort the waste prior to dumping; they may require that you separate leaves and grass clippings from trees and shrubs. Many of these sites charge a fee. Your local garbage company may also offer composting pickup. 

You can haul your yard waste to one of these sites yourself. The downside of this is that you may not want this waste in your clean vehicle. You could hire someone to remove it, but this would incur additional costs. Some cities offer annual pickups and waste-management companies can be engaged for a scheduled collection, often for an extra fee.

If you’re undertaking a big project such as a total landscaping overhaul or yard cleanup, you would be advised to rent a dumpster. There are many sizes available depending on the task at hand. Something most gardeners will tell you is that you always underestimate the quantity of yard waste.

Be Sure to Plan Ahead and Call to Schedule a Pickup of Your Yard Debris

If you plan on spending a fall Saturday with your leaf blower or a summer weekend of lawn care with your lawn mower, you can figure that this will accumulate a large mass of waste, particularly if you are on several acres. 

You do not want the yard debris to lie around spoiling the clean new look of your yard; you want it collected and removed ASAP. At the same time, yard work has a habit of taking longer than planned. For the most effective and flexible solution,  your best bet is to contact a bin rental company with whom you can schedule a pickup when you know your project will be finished. Bargain Bin rentals run for seven days (or potentially longer with prior arrangement). You can build in a bit of leeway to give yourself time for any curve balls life may throw at you.

Yard Waste Clean Up and Trash

Burning yard waste is not recommended as it poses a pollution and wildfire risk. In some areas it is prohibited. While sticks and logs can be set aside for firewood, it’s best not to burn your dead leaves and brush. 

What Items are Not Considered Yard Waste?

Yard waste includes:

  • Grass clippings
  • Weeds
  • Leaves
  • Branches
  • Pet waste

Because of their weight, these items are not considered yard waste:

  • Sod
  • Soil
  • Rocks, stones, pebbles
  • Bricks (part or whole)

Make Sure Your Local Waste Disposal Service’s Guidelines are Followed

Yard waste guidelines differ by area. Ask the experts at Bargain Bins about the specifics in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas.

For top class service, submit an online request to rent a dumpster. One of the helpful team members at Bargain Bins will get back to you with just the right size and placement solution for cleaning up yard waste.