How to Dispose of Yard Waste Without Dumping It Illegally

Most municipalities will pick up organic waste and yard clippings, or they'll have a designated place for you to drop them off for recycling. Often your clippings are mulched and used on public green spaces.

If you've got a truck, then you can haul your debris and junk to the local dump yourself. If they've got an area for recycling, try that first. You may have to pay a fee per load or weight, but that's better than a fine for illegal dumping.

Got a lot of wood to get rid of? A chipper is great for breaking down large branches and shrubs into usable mulch. You can rent one for $200 to $400 per day; it's an even better deal if you go in on it with a few neighbors. Use extreme caution when using this machine, though. Fargo is only funny because it's fiction.

It may be more cost-effective (and less of a hassle) to hire a crew or a truck to remove your yard waste and any other junk you have laying around. You won't need a large unit unless you're doing a few days of demolition work, but these hauling companies can certainly hold a lot if you need that.

Check with your local laws before burning any yard waste. Even if it is legal where you live, this type of yard disposal emits pollutants and there is always a risk of an uncontrollable fire.