Manitou Springs, CO Trash & Recycling: Yard Waste Collection (2026)
Key Facts
- Yard waste defined
- Grass, leaves, brush, garden debris only
- Container exemption
- No bear-resistant container if unmixed
- Storage rule
- Still must use a container under § 6.24.020
- First violation
- Warning plus compliance schedule, no fine
- Repeat violation
- Graduated fine set by city council
- Curbside window
- Bins out 6 a.m., removed by 8 p.m.
Summary
Manitou Springs' Wildlife Protection chapter defines yard waste as grass clippings, lawn rakings, leaves, garden vegetation, brush and other woods free of other waste, and exempts it from the wildlife-resistant container rule as long as it isn't mixed with food or other attractants.
"Yard waste" means grass clippings, lawn rakings, leaves, garden vegetation, brush and other woods, free of other waste. ... C.Other household waste that cannot reasonably be considered an attractant as defined in this chapter, including, but not limited to, non-edible yard waste as defined in this chapter, cardboard, or household items, shall not require the use of wildlife-resistant waste containers when not commingled with attractants or any item that previously held or stored an attractant. Such items are still required to be stored in a container as described in City Code Section 6.24.020.
Full Breakdown
010 is to minimize dangerous wildlife-human conflict from unsecured waste and recyclables. 020 defines 'yard waste' narrowly as grass clippings, lawn rakings, leaves, garden vegetation, brush and other woods, free of other waste, distinguishing it from an 'attractant' like food scraps or pet food. 020. that same day. 100.
Violations & Fines
A first wildlife-waste violation, including improperly stored yard waste mixed with attractants, results in a written notice and a compliance deadline, not an immediate fine. A repeat violation at the same address draws a graduated fine set by city council, and any violation of the chapter remains punishable as a misdemeanor under Section 1.01.100.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a bear-resistant container for grass clippings and leaves?
Can I still just leave yard waste loose at the curb?
What happens on a first wildlife-waste violation in Manitou Springs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Manitou Springs
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Yard Waste Collection in Nearby Cities
How other cities in El Paso County handle yard waste collection.