Inyo County residents will have an opportunity to dispose of green waste free of charge during a special weekend event on October 24 and 25, 2026. The County of Inyo is waiving gate fees at all county landfills and transfer stations for green waste materials only, as part of an ongoing effort to mitigate wildfire risks across the region. This initiative encourages local residents to proactively clear vegetation and other combustible materials from their properties, contributing to community safety ahead of potential fire hazards.
The free disposal period will be available at several key locations throughout Inyo County. The Bishop Landfill will accept green waste on both Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25. Similarly, the Lone Pine Landfill will also be open for free green waste drop-offs on both Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25. For residents in other parts of the county, the Big Pine Transfer Station will participate on Saturday, October 24, while the Independence Landfill will offer the service on Sunday, October 25. These specific dates and locations are designed to provide access for residents across various communities within Inyo County.
To ensure the program benefits its intended recipients, specific conditions apply. The gate fees will be waived exclusively for "green waste only"; loads containing mixed refuse will not be eligible for free disposal. This means residents should separate their green waste, such as branches, leaves, and brush, from other household or construction debris before arriving at the facilities. Furthermore, this offer is extended solely to Inyo County residents, who should be prepared to present identification upon arrival. Commercial haulers and landscaping contractors are explicitly excluded from this program, ensuring that the county's resources are directed towards supporting individual residents in their wildfire prevention efforts.
The County of Inyo has emphasized its continuous encouragement for residents to adopt proactive measures in reducing wildfire risk. The decision to waive gate fees at the landfill and transfer stations serves as a tangible action, demonstrating "the County’s commitment towards helping to reduce catastrophic wildfire events within and around our communities." This effort highlights the critical role residents play in wildfire preparedness and mitigation, working in partnership with county initiatives to protect homes and natural areas from the destructive potential of large-scale fires. By facilitating the easy and cost-free removal of flammable vegetation, the County aims to foster a safer environment for all who live and visit the Eastern Sierra region.
