Rockford, IL Trash & Recycling: Yard Waste Collection (2026)
Key Facts
- Container
- 30-gallon two-ply paper bags required
- Brush bundle limit
- 4 feet long, 3x3 ft cross-section
- Not collected
- Limbs/stumps over 4 inches diameter
- First violation fine
- $50 added to water bill
Summary
Rockford requires yard waste, leaves, grass clippings, tree limbs, and garden refuse, to go out in 30-gallon two-ply paper containers, with bundled brush capped at 4 feet long and 4-inch diameter limbs excluded from routine collection.
Yard waste, as defined in section 25-21, with the exception of tree branches and limbs, shall be placed for collection only in approved 30-gallon, two-ply paper containers which are capable of standing or other approved container, as designated by the director.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 18).
Full Breakdown
City code defines yard waste as tree limbs, branches, grass, leaves, shrubs, and garden refuse (Sec. 25-21). Leaves, grass clippings, and similar garden refuse must go in approved containers, while yard waste other than tree branches and limbs must be set out only in approved 30-gallon, two-ply paper containers or another container the director approves (Sec. 25-26). Tree limbs and brush are tied in bundles no larger than four feet long and three feet by three feet in cross section (Sec. 25-24(d)). The city won't collect limbs or stumps over four inches in diameter, or bundles exceeding four feet in length and two feet in diameter (Sec. 25-25).
Violations & Fines
Improperly containerized yard waste can trigger a warning, then escalating charges of $50, $100, and $300 added to the property's water/rubbish bill (Sec. 25-32).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put tree branches in my trash cart?
What size tree limbs will Rockford collect?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rockford
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