Landfills & Dumps in Maryland

Maryland's solid waste management is overseen by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Solid Waste Program, which regulates landfills, transfer stations, recycling centers, and waste-to-energy facilities across the state. Each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City manages its own network of facilities tailored to local needs. During calendar year 2023, 25 Refuse Disposal Permits for municipal landfills were in effect, with 22 facilities actively developed and operating. A new site, Brown Station Road Landfill Area C, was permitted in 2023, adding capacity to the state's disposal infrastructure.

County-operated disposal systems vary in services and fees across Maryland. Most counties charge $50 to $80 per ton for waste disposal, with residential self-haul loads assessed flat rates of $25 to $50 depending on vehicle size. Residents typically must use facilities in their county of residence, though some accept non-residents for higher fees. Many counties offer free disposal days for residents and maintain separate drop-off areas for recyclables, yard waste, electronics, and household hazardous materials.

Chesapeake Bay protection drives many of Maryland's waste management policies. Facilities near the bay and its tributaries operate under strict environmental controls to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Yard waste and food scraps are increasingly diverted from landfills through composting programs, reducing nutrients that could otherwise impact bay health. Some materials require special handling in bay-adjacent areas to prevent pollution of this critical estuary.

The MDE recently announced significant revisions to Maryland's hazardous waste regulations under COMAR 26.13, effective October 1, 2025. These revisions enhance environmental protection while streamlining compliance for regulated businesses. For municipal solid waste, Montgomery County adopted its Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan for 2025-2034 in April 2025, establishing goals and strategies for the ten-year planning period. Other counties maintain similar long-range plans coordinated with MDE.

Electronics and appliances are accepted at most county facilities, with e-waste often taken free of charge while appliances with refrigerants carry fees of $10 to $25 for proper handling. Permit applications for new or expanded facilities undergo public review, including opportunities for comment and public hearings. Before visiting any Maryland disposal facility, check your county's website for current fees, accepted materials, and operating hours, as requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction.