Landfills & Dumps in New Jersey

New Jersey's solid waste management is governed by the Division of Sustainable Waste Management within the Department of Environmental Protection, with regulations codified in N.J.A.C. 7:26. As the most densely populated state in the nation, New Jersey operates a highly regulated system with county-based waste management plans and flow control requirements that direct waste to designated facilities. Disposal fees are among the highest in the country due to limited landfill space, often reaching $70 to $100 or more per ton.

Sanitary landfills in New Jersey must meet stringent environmental performance standards including composite liner systems with geomembrane in compressive contact with two feet of compacted clay, leachate containment and collection systems, gas venting, surface drainage control, and comprehensive monitoring. Facilities are inspected for compliance on a regular basis, typically quarterly to annually depending on risk level. Owners and operators of landfills operating since January 1982 must have DEP-approved closure and post-closure plans.

State law mandates recycling of numerous materials including paper, cardboard, glass, metal, plastics, and leaves, with yard waste banned from landfills. The Electronic Waste Management Act prohibits landfill disposal of certain electronics and requires recycling programs. Looking ahead, the Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Battery Management Act will ban improper disposal of propulsion batteries in landfills after January 8, 2027, reflecting growing concerns about battery waste management.

Flow control regulations require waste generated within a county to be delivered to facilities designated in that county's solid waste management plan. This ensures predictable waste streams for county-operated facilities but affects where residents and businesses can dispose of waste. Check your county's solid waste plan to understand designated facility requirements before hauling waste across county lines.

Residential self-haul fees vary by county, typically ranging from $30 to $60 per load, with recycling helping to reduce overall costs. E-waste collection programs operate at the county level, accepting computers, TVs, and other electronics at designated locations or during collection events. Many retailers also accept electronics for recycling. Before visiting any facility, check with your county's solid waste program for accepted materials, fees, and hours of operation.