Berwyn, IL Trash & Recycling: Yard Waste Collection (2026)

Chapter 1060 of the Berwyn Code of Ordinances runs the city's solid waste system, and § 1060.10 sets the core yard waste rules. The Landscape Waste Program includes a weekly collection of landscape waste units at alleyside. It is separate from normal refuse collection but runs on the same days, using trucks and equipment designated for landscape waste. Section 1060.01 defines landscape waste as all accumulations of grass or shrubbery cuttings, leaves, tree limbs and other materials that result from the care of lawns, shrubbery, vines and trees. The definition of refuse expressly excludes landscape waste, so yard waste is its own waste class with its own receptacle.

Who hauls it is restricted. For noncommercial residences, meaning single-family homes and buildings of four or fewer units, only the city's designated refuse disposal contractor collects landscape waste. No one else is allowed to collect it unless licensed by the city to run a scavenger business, or unless conducting a landscape business and hauling the waste only as an incidental service to caring for lawns, trees and shrubs. A homeowner who hires a landscaper can have the crew take the clippings away. An unlicensed hauler cannot.

Preparation is regulated too. Section 1060.10(E) makes two acts unlawful: mixing landscape waste with refuse intended for landfill disposal, and placing landscape waste out for pickup unless it is packaged in city-approved containers or bags. Under § 1060.03, every owner or tenant provides a separate receptacle for each class of waste, sized to hold one week's accumulation, kept in good order and placed close to the public alley where the collector can reach it. Storing receptacles on a street, alley, park or public place is prohibited.

Cost is folded into the bill for most homes. Under § 1060.10(F) and § 1060.05(B), the refuse charge for a noncommercial residence includes weekly pickup of landscape waste and shrub trimmings, so there is no separate yard waste fee. Buildings with five or more units and commercial properties deal with their own scavenger, who can charge a reasonable fee for each landscape waste unit. The Director of Public Works supervises all collection and disposal matters under § 1060.02.