Landfills & Dumps in Colorado

Colorado's diverse geography creates distinct waste management challenges addressed by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). The Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division oversees solid waste facilities from the densely populated Front Range corridor to remote mountain communities and agricultural eastern plains. In 2024, the state processed over 10 million tons of solid waste, generating more than $22 million in user fees that support regulatory programs and the new Closed Landfill Remediation Grant Program.

The Front Range urban corridor from Fort Collins through Denver to Colorado Springs hosts the state's largest disposal facilities. Residential self-haul fees typically range from $15 to $30 for cars and small trailers, and $30 to $50 for pickup trucks, with most facilities charging by vehicle type rather than weight. Commercial loads are weighed and billed per ton. Denver and Boulder lead the state in construction and demolition recycling, with specialized facilities separating concrete, wood, and metals for reuse at rates often cheaper than landfill disposal.

Mountain resort communities face unique challenges with limited space, seasonal population swings, and difficult winter access. Most mountain towns operate transfer stations where waste is compacted and trucked to regional landfills at lower elevations. These facilities often have restricted hours and may close during severe weather, so calling ahead during winter months is advisable. Summit, Eagle, and Pitkin counties have developed robust recycling programs to minimize the waste requiring transport down-valley.

Electronics are banned from Colorado landfills statewide, requiring separate disposal at designated e-waste collection points. Most transfer stations maintain dedicated drop-off areas for computers, televisions, and other electronics, though some items like CRT monitors may carry small fees. Household hazardous waste including paint, pesticides, and automotive fluids requires disposal at special collection sites or periodic community events coordinated through county programs.

CDPHE maintains an interactive map of all permitted solid waste facilities and provides technical assistance for small landfills and rural communities. Before visiting any facility, confirm current hours, accepted materials, and fees, as these can vary significantly between urban and rural locations. The department's customer assistance line can help locate appropriate disposal options for unusual waste types.