Wayne, NJ Trash & Recycling: Yard Waste Collection (2026)

Wayne Township treats yard debris as a mandatory recyclable. Chapter 141 defines vegetative waste as all grass clippings, leaves, twigs, garden refuse and shrub trimmings, and § 141-3A requires owners, lessees and occupants of residential premises in the Township to separate it from other solid waste.

Section 141-4C sets the container rules. Vegetative waste goes in double-ply paper bags that are securely tied or fastened at the top, or in reusable metal or plastic containers with a secure fitting top. The use of plastic bags for vegetative waste is prohibited, and it is unlawful to place loose vegetative waste on the curb or the street. The published text prints the maximum container capacity as "32 35 gallons," which looks like an amendment artifact, so call the Department of Public Works to confirm the current limit before buying containers.

Section 141-4D sets the timing. Recycling and vegetative waste must be at the curbline no later than 6:00 a.m. on the designated collection days. Receptacles go to the curb no earlier than one day before the scheduled collection date and come back in on the day of collection, then are stored in an inconspicuous and sanitary location.

The Director of Public Works, as enforcement agent, inspects collection routes on a random basis at least once per month per route under § 141-7B. After the Township collects, nobody else can take the contents. Section 141-7A makes materials at the curb Township property and bars tampering during the 24-hour period starting at 6:00 p.m. on the day before collection. Residents who prefer another outlet can use any other lawful means under § 141-5, but the vegetative waste cannot be put out as part of regular solid waste.