Effective October 1st 2021, all compostable yard waste- leaves, grass clippings, and branches 1” and smaller must be in paper or clearly labeled biodegradable yard waste bags. Bags must be 30-50 gallons in size and weigh no more than 40 pounds, to be considered for pickup. This is a free service for all city residents.
Compostable yard waste will be rejected if bags are plastic, bags weigh more than 40 pounds, bags are split or broken open, bags contain household garbage, construction debris, brush and branches over 1” in size, dirt, soil, sand, dead animals or animal waste. Residents can arrange for a special item pick up with the Department of Public Works for the disposal of refuse that does not meet the requirements. After October 1st, bags that are not compliant will not be collected and a sticker will be placed on the bag that details why the bag was not in compliance.
Yard waste pick up routes follow the city refuse and recycle routes, but due to workload and seasonal changes, yard waste pick up will not always coincide with the refuse schedule.
Moving away from yard waste collection in plastic bags is not only more environmentally friendly but also requires less time and resources from Department of Public Works staff to dispose of yard waste.
This transition will not affect pick up requirements for refuse or recycling. If residents have questions about yard waste collection please contact The Department of Public Works at 518-563-1120 or email duellk@cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov.
