Landfills & Dumps in Louisiana

Louisiana's solid waste management system is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ), with waste regulations contained in Louisiana Administrative Code Title 33. The state classifies solid waste disposal facilities into three main types: Type I industrial landfills, Type II municipal solid waste landfills, and Type III construction and demolition debris facilities. Currently, Louisiana operates 21 industrial landfills, 25 municipal solid waste landfills, and 39 C&D debris landfills, along with numerous transfer stations and surface impoundments across 64 parishes.

For residents in the New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and other urban areas, disposal fees typically range from $35 to $50 per ton for commercial waste, with residential self-haul loads costing $25 to $40 per pickup truck. Many parishes operate their own collection sites where residents can dispose of household waste, bulky items, and yard debris. Some parish facilities offer free disposal days for residents with proof of residency, making it more affordable to handle large cleanout projects.

Hurricane debris management is a critical capability for Louisiana's waste management infrastructure. Coastal parishes maintain detailed storm debris management plans that activate after major weather events. When hurricanes strike, temporary debris sites open throughout affected areas, and regular facilities often extend operating hours to accommodate increased disposal needs. Vegetative debris, construction materials, and damaged household goods are typically separated at these sites for different processing and disposal methods.

The petrochemical industry along the Mississippi River corridor generates specialized waste streams that require disposal at specially permitted facilities. Oilfield waste, chemical processing residuals, and other industrial materials cannot be disposed of at regular municipal landfills. LDEQ maintains strict oversight of these facilities to protect Louisiana's wetlands, waterways, and drinking water sources. Facilities near coastal areas operate under additional environmental controls to safeguard sensitive ecosystems.

Wood waste in Louisiana can be beneficially reused under Best Management Practices Plans approved by the Department of Agriculture, exempting certain operations from solid waste permitting requirements. Before disposing of waste at any Louisiana facility, contact them directly to confirm current hours, accepted materials, and fees. Permit records for disposal facilities are available for public review at the LDEQ Public Records Center in Baton Rouge.