Landfills & Dumps in Indiana

Indiana's waste management infrastructure serves all 92 counties through a network of landfills, transfer stations, and recycling facilities regulated by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). The Office of Land Quality ensures waste is transported, treated, stored, and disposed of appropriately, administering permit programs that define environmentally acceptable practices. Open dumping and open burning of waste is illegal throughout Indiana, with all waste required to go to permitted facilities.

Landfills in Indiana must be designed, constructed, and operated according to rules in the Indiana Administrative Code, with requirements for protective liners, leachate collection systems, and groundwater monitoring wells to detect potential contamination. Several large regional landfills accept waste from neighboring states, generating revenue for host communities while extending facility life. Local residents typically receive priority access and discounted rates compared to commercial or out-of-state customers.

Disposal costs for Indiana residents typically range from $25 to $45 per pickup truck load for household waste, with commercial rates of $30 to $50 per ton depending on waste type. Some counties offer free or reduced-rate disposal days for residents, particularly for bulky items and special wastes. IDEM maintains a list of all permitted solid waste facilities including municipal landfills, C&D landfills, transfer stations, and restricted waste sites.

Solid Waste Management Districts (SWMDs) operate in each county, serving as the local authority for recycling, yard waste, and household hazardous waste services. Districts track materials recycled and sent for disposal, conduct collection events, and provide community education. Many rural counties operate recycling drop-off centers at or near transfer stations, accepting common recyclables like cardboard, paper, and metal at no charge. Contact your SWMD for local programs and schedules.

Tires are accepted at most Indiana landfills for $2 to $5 per tire, and many counties hold free tire amnesty events annually through their solid waste districts. Tire retailers must accept old tires when customers purchase replacements. Illegal tire dumping carries significant fines. Household hazardous waste collection events accept paint, chemicals, automotive fluids, and other materials that shouldn't enter regular trash. Check the Indiana Household Hazardous Waste Task Force website to find your district and upcoming events.