Erie, PA Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Erie's yard-waste and composting program implements the Pennsylvania Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act of 1988 (Act 101, codified at 53 P.S. §4000.101 et seq.), which requires every Pennsylvania municipality with a population of 5,000 or more to provide curbside or drop-off leaf-and-yard-waste collection separated from general municipal solid waste. The City of Erie runs a seasonal curbside compost-collection program (typically spring through fall) operated through the Department of Public Works alongside regular trash collection. Approved compost materials include grass clippings, hedge and shrub trimmings, garden clippings, and leaves, placed at the curb in open hard containers (50-lb limit) or in pale-green compostable bags meeting ASTM D6400 standards. Branches and limbs must be tied in bundles or placed in a container and kept out of the main compost stream. Residents are warned not to rake leaves into city streets due to traffic-safety risks. Finished compost is distributed free to City residents when available. Backyard home composting is encouraged and is not subject to a specific Erie permit. Best practices consistent with Penn State Extension and PA DCNR guidance: keep compost bins 5-10 feet from any property line, use a rodent-resistant design, balance browns and greens, and compost only plant-based food scraps and yard waste. Article 951 of the Erie Codified Ordinances (https://ecode360.com/33838554) governs residential refuse. Open burning of leaves, brush, and yard waste is prohibited statewide under 25 Pa. Code §129.14 and enforced locally by the Erie Bureau of Fire.