Open dumping of solid waste in Saint Joseph County is prohibited. Solid waste such as construction or demolition debris, appliances and furniture, and household garbage must be disposed in a permitted sanitary landfill or recycled if applicable. Open dumping of these items is considered public and environmental health threat. Solid waste that is disposed of improperly can leach contaminants into our groundwater and create habitats for pests and vector breeding.
Household products that contain hazardous substances that are no longer of use and need to be disposed of becoming household hazardous waste (HHW). HHW includes items such as old paint, electronics, pesticides, batteries, pool chemicals, degreasers, and other car care products. If these products are disposed of improperly, significant environmental and public health hazards can be created. Improper disposal methods include pouring them down the drain, onto the ground, in storm water drains, or putting them in the regular trash.
Residents of Saint Joseph County are provided with a permanent HHW collection facility. Various HHW items are accepted on a drop-off basis. For more information on items that are accepted, location, and hours of operation.
For disposing of larger items such as furniture and appliances, contact your local municipality to see if pick-up is available. The City of South Bend allows one large item for pick up per month at no charge.
Any person that charges a fee to transport garbage from someone else’s property for disposal is required to obtain a permit from the Department of Health. During transportation, garbage must be securely covered to prevent any contents from falling off of the vehicle. Permit renewals are due by the last day of February each year.
If you have concerns regarding open dumping or garbage haulers that are not permitted, please contact the Department of Health at (574) 235-9750.
