Fort Smith, AR Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Fort Smith operates one of the more developed municipal yard-waste-to-compost programs in Arkansas. Solid Waste Services (5900 Commerce Rd, Fort Smith – https://solidwaste.fortsmithar.gov/yard-waste/) collects yard waste from residential customers using either a free city-issued 96-gallon cart or a resident-supplied 32-gallon bin, with the lid closed. Approved materials include grass clippings, leaves, hedge and shrub trimmings, and small branches. Loose branches and limbs must be bundled and tied with string, not exceeding 18 inches in diameter or 50 pounds per bundle. Paper bags are preferred over plastic because they can go directly into the composting process; plastic bags must be debagged before contents enter composting. A separate bulk brush/limbs collection service is available for a one-time fee added to the utility bill. All collected yard waste is processed at the Fort Smith Landfill composting facility, and the City sells the finished compost to residents through its Purchase Compost program (https://www.fortsmithar.gov/resident-services/waste-recycling-management/landfill/purchase-compost). Backyard home composting is not subject to a Fort Smith permit. Best practices consistent with U of A Cooperative Extension 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 — no meat, dairy, or pet waste. Open burning of yard waste is restricted under Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment - Division of Environmental Quality Regulation 18 (Air Pollution Control Code) and Fort Smith Fire Department burn rules.