Lincoln, NE Trash & Recycling: Yard Waste Collection (2026)
Key Facts
- Container
- Degradable paper or two-ply moisture-resistant bin
- Alt. containers
- Lidded can, toter, or roll-off allowed
- Plastic bags
- Prohibited for lawn waste storage
- Hauler license
- Not required for lawn waste
- First-offense fine
- $100 to $500
Summary
Lincoln requires lawn waste to go out in a degradable paper container or a lidded, water-tight bin, and exempts anyone hauling it from the waste-hauler license requirement.
f. Lawn waste containers: A degradable paper container or other container of suitable, two-ply moisture resistant materials that will not adversely impact composting. Lawn waste may also be contained in separate garbage cans, bulk containers, roll-offs, poly-karts, roll-outs, or toters, provided that such containers shall have suitable tight-fitting lids; be water-tight and fly-tight; and be kept in serviceable condition at all times. A sufficient number of containers shall be provided to store all solid waste materials prior to removal from the premises. Such containers or receptacles shall be kept on the premises in a place accessible and convenient for the collection service and kept in a sanitary and serviceable condition. All containers used for garbage shall be kept covered or closed to prevent the entrance of insects and rodents. The location of the containers or receptacle shall be kept clean and wellmaintained.
Full Breakdown
Under Lincoln Municipal Code § 8.32.220(f), lawn waste must be set out in a degradable paper container or other two-ply, moisture-resistant material that won't disrupt composting, or in a garbage can, bulk container, roll-off, poly-kart, roll-out, or toter with a tight-fitting, water-tight, fly-tight lid kept in serviceable condition. Plastic bags are barred for lawn waste storage under § 8.32.220(e). Unlike garbage haulers, anyone collecting, hauling, or conveying lawn waste is exempt from the city's waste-hauler license under § 8.32.110(d).
Violations & Fines
Violating container specs is a misdemeanor under § 8.32.260: up to 6 months jail and/or a fine of $100-$500, rising to $250 for a second offense and $500+ for a third; each day is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What container can I use for yard waste in Lincoln?
Do I need a license to haul my own yard waste?
Can I bag leaves and grass clippings in plastic for pickup?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lincoln
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