Table of Contents
Understanding Accepted Yard Waste Materials in Portland
This section clarifies exactly what types of yard debris are accepted in Portland’s curbside compost program. Knowing what can and cannot go in your green bin is the first step to responsible waste management.
The City of Portland accepts a wide variety of yard waste in the green roll cart. This includes common items like:
- Weeds
- Leaves
- Vines
- Grass
- Flowers
- House plants
- Plant clippings
- Pumpkins
In addition to these typical yard debris items, Portland’s residential curbside compost collection also includes food waste. This means you can dispose of all food scraps, including meat, bones, dairy, and even food-soiled paper products like napkins and pizza boxes.
For branches, there are specific size restrictions. Branches must be less than 4 inches in diameter and less than 36 inches in length to be accepted in the green bin.
Actionable Tip: Keep a small pair of pruning shears near your green bin to quickly cut down branches to the appropriate size.
Items that should never be placed in the green roll cart include:
- Plastic bags
- Rocks
- Dirt
- Animal waste
- Garbage
Using the Right Containers for Yard Waste Collection
This section explains the container requirements for Portland’s yard waste collection service. Using the correct containers ensures efficient collection and helps prevent contamination of the compost stream.
The standard container for yard debris and food scraps is the city-provided 64-gallon green roll cart. This cart is specifically designed for compostable materials and is included in your regular garbage service.
It’s critically important to use only the provided green roll cart. Specifically, residents should not use:
- Plastic bags
- Yellow recycling bins
- Plastic liners
- Containers not labeled for yard debris
These restrictions are in place because plastic bags and liners interfere with the composting process. Recycling bins are designated for specific recyclable materials, and mixing yard waste with them contaminates both streams.
If you have more yard waste than can fit in your green roll cart, you may incur additional costs. Extra cans, bags, or bundles beyond the provided cart are subject to extra fees.
To ensure your waste is collected, remember to place your cart at the curb by 6:00 a.m. on your collection day. Proper placement is key to ensuring smooth and efficient service.
Staying on Schedule and Avoiding Fines
This section details the collection schedule and outlines potential penalties for non-compliance. Adhering to the schedule and rules is crucial for maintaining a clean and sustainable city.
Compost carts in Portland are serviced weekly. This frequent collection schedule helps manage the volume of organic waste and keeps the city clean. It’s vital to place your cart at the curb by 6:00 a.m. on your designated collection day. This ensures that your waste is collected and avoids any potential disruptions.
Illegal dumping and littering are strictly prohibited in Portland. These actions not only harm the environment but also detract from the beauty of the city. Violators may face significant fines. These regulations are in place to deter illegal dumping and maintain the cleanliness and environmental health of the community. Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 164.775, ORS 164.785, and ORS 164.805) are used to enforce illegal dumping and littering regulations.
It’s a good idea to stay informed about any changes to the regulations. The City of Portland website is a great resource for the most up-to-date information.
Final Thoughts
Properly managing yard waste is a crucial aspect of living in Portland and contributing to the city’s sustainability goals. By understanding and adhering to the regulations outlined in this guide—knowing what materials are accepted, using the correct containers, and following the collection schedule—you can avoid penalties and play your part in keeping Portland green. Remember, correct composting and waste disposal not only benefit the environment but also enhance the overall quality of life in our community. Stay informed, stay compliant, and help Portland continue to lead in environmental stewardship.
Need Help with Yard Waste Removal?
For large amounts of yard waste or general junk removal, contact Smart Junk Removal for a free estimate.
References:
- City of Portland. (n.d.). *City of Portland rules related to garbage recycling and compost pertaining to garbage companies residential customers and commercial customers including businesses and multifamily properties.* Retrieved from https://www.portland.gov/bps/garbage-recycling/compost
- City of Portland. (n.d.). *Residential curbside compost collection allows food and yard waste as well as food soiled paper and pizza boxes.* Retrieved from https://www.portland.gov/bps/garbage-recycling/compost
- City of Portland. (n.d.). *Compost carts are serviced weekly One green 64 gallon roll cart is included in your regular garbage service Additional costs incurred for extra cans bags or bundles Do not use plastic bags yellow recycling bins plastic liners or containers not labeled for yard debris When using Kraft.* Retrieved from https://www.portland.gov/bps/garbage-recycling/compost
- Oregon Metro. (n.d.). *In addition to Oregon Revised Statutes ORS 164 775 ORS 164 785 and ORS 164 805 many local jurisdictions have ordinances against illegal dumping and littering.* Retrieved from https://www.oregonmetro.gov/tools-living/garbage-and-recycling/garbage-recycling-hazardous-waste-disposal-portland