Jefferson County, MO Trash & Recycling: Yard Waste Collection (2026)
Key Facts
- Definition
- Grass clippings, leaves, dead-tree debris
- Container standard
- Must prevent dispersal onto right-of-way
- Weight limit
- Set by the hauler, not a fixed figure
- Placement rule
- Same as trash: agreed spot, collection day
- Legal basis
- Jefferson County Code § 250.020(D)
Summary
Jefferson County defines yard waste as grass clippings, leaves and debris from dead, fallen or felled trees, and Section 250.020(D) requires it to be stored in containers sturdy enough to keep it from blowing onto the yard or spilling into the public right-of-way. The hauler, not the resident, decides how much any one container can weigh.
Yard Wastes. Yard wastes shall be stored in containers so constructed and maintained as to prevent the dispersal of wastes therein on the premises served or upon adjacent public rights-of-way. The weight of any individual container shall be determined by the solid waste collector.
Full Breakdown
010 of the Solid Waste Management Code defines 'yard wastes' as grass clippings, leaves and debris from dead, fallen or felled trees. 020(D) then sets the storage standard: containers must be built and kept in a condition that stops yard waste from scattering across the property being served or drifting onto the neighboring public right-of-way. 020(B), the Code leaves the weight limit on yard-waste containers to the solid waste collector servicing the property, so haulers can set their own cap rather than the County dictating one figure.
030(C) requires it to go out on the designated collection day, at a spot on the property already agreed between the hauler and the resident, clear of storm water runoff, with containers returned within twenty-four hours of collection. 030(A) requires every dwelling to carry solid waste collection service from a hauler holding a valid Jefferson County hauling permit. 130 penalty.
Violations & Fines
Failing to keep yard waste contained so it scatters onto adjoining rights-of-way violates Section 250.020(D) and is enforceable under the Section 250.130 penalty framework: a fine of up to $1,000, up to a year in jail, or both, plus costs, with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense. The Director may also issue a written notice ordering correction within a set time before further action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as yard waste in Jefferson County?
How heavy can my yard waste container be?
What happens if my yard waste blows into the street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jefferson County
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