Landfills & Dumps in New Hampshire

New Hampshire's solid waste management is regulated by the Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) under RSA 149-M and the NH Solid Waste Rules Env-Sw 100-2000, which have recently undergone extensive revision and readoption. The state has limited in-state landfill capacity with only six operating double-lined landfills, one single-lined landfill, and two unlined landfills, meaning much waste is transported to out-of-state facilities or processed at waste-to-energy plants. This affects disposal costs statewide.

Starting January 1, 2026, New Hampshire will impose a $3.50 per ton surcharge on all solid waste taken to the state's six active landfills or its waste-to-energy facility. While municipalities, businesses, and institutions will pay this fee, New Hampshire towns and cities will receive 100 percent quarterly rebates. Many communities use pay-as-you-throw systems where residents purchase special bags for trash, typically $1 to $3 per bag, incentivizing recycling since recyclables are usually free to dispose.

New disposal bans took effect in 2025 to protect the environment and reduce facility fires. Effective February 1, 2025, entities generating one or more tons of food waste per week within 20 miles of a capable management facility are prohibited from landfilling or incinerating that waste. Effective July 1, 2025, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are banned from disposal in landfills and incinerators due to fire risks from items like e-bikes, power tools, portable electronics, and rechargeable personal care products.

Electronics have long been banned from New Hampshire disposal facilities, including TVs, monitors, computers, laptops, tablets, cell phones, printers, copiers, and media players. Mercury-added products are also prohibited. Yard waste including leaves, grass clippings, garden debris, and branches cannot go to landfills or incinerators. Transfer stations throughout the state have separate collection areas for these banned materials.

Most New Hampshire towns require permits or vehicle stickers to use their transfer stations, obtained at town hall often with vehicle registration. Hours and fee structures vary by municipality, with some charging per-visit fees in addition to or instead of permits. Before visiting, check with your town for specific requirements. NHDES maintains information on waste reduction, diversion programs, and compliance requirements on their website.