Michigan prohibits disposal of yard clippings in landfills statewide. Generators must compost, use curbside collection, or take material to permitted facilities.
Under MCL 324.11521, leaves, grass clippings, and similar yard waste cannot be landfilled in Michigan. The ban applies statewide to all generators and haulers. Limited exceptions allow disposal in landfills with approved gas collection and energy recovery systems. Most cities and counties operate compost sites or curbside programs to comply. Diseased trees and noxious weeds may be exempted with DEGLE approval.
Knowingly disposing yard waste in a non-compliant landfill is a misdemeanor under MCL 324.11551. Fines reach $2,500 per violation and haulers can lose operating licenses.
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See how Zeeland's recycling requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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