Nebraska Statewide Rule

Nebraska Integrated Solid Waste Management Act

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Nebraska (2026)

Key Facts

Statute range: 13-2001 to 13-2043
Yard waste: Banned from landfills
Tires/oil/batteries: Banned from landfills
Permitting: DWEE statewide
Plans required: All counties/cities

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Nebraska Legislature

Summary

Nebraska's Integrated Solid Waste Management Act sets statewide waste-reduction goals, bans certain materials from landfills, and requires permitted disposal. Local recycling programs operate within this state framework.

(2) The integrated solid waste management plan shall provide for a local waste reduction and recycling program. If technically and economically feasible, the volume of materials disposed of in landfills as of July 1, 1994, shall be reduced by twenty-five percent as of July 1, 1996, by forty percent as of July 1, 1999, and by fifty percent as of July 1, 2002. Any county, municipality, or agency which had in effect a recycling or waste reduction program prior to July 1, 1994, shall be credited with the waste-stream reduction achieved prior to July 1, 1994, with respect to the July 1, 1996, goal.

Source: Nebraska LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Neb. Rev. Stat. 13-2001 to 13-2043 establish the state's solid waste hierarchy and prohibit disposal of yard waste, lead-acid batteries, used oil, tires, and appliances containing refrigerants in Nebraska landfills. The Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) permits all solid waste facilities and collection systems. Counties and municipalities must develop integrated solid waste management plans consistent with state goals. While cities choose how to deliver collection and recycling, they cannot authorize disposal of banned materials or operate unpermitted facilities. Producer-led programs cover specific waste streams under separate statutes.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $10,000 per day under Environmental Protection Act; criminal penalties for knowing illegal disposal; cleanup cost recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I throw yard waste in my Nebraska trash bin?

No. Grass clippings, leaves, and tree trimmings are banned from Nebraska landfills statewide. Residents must compost, mulch, or use a yard-waste collection program.

Are tires accepted at the curb?

Tires are banned from landfills and most curbside trash. They must be taken to a licensed waste-tire processor or municipal collection event.

Does Nebraska require curbside recycling?

State law does not mandate curbside recycling for every household, but each city and county must adopt a written integrated solid-waste plan with reduction strategies.

Sources

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