Landfills & Dumps in North Carolina

North Carolina's solid waste management is administered by the Solid Waste Section of the NC DEQ Division of Waste Management under Article 9 of Chapter 130A of the NC General Statutes and Title 15A, Subchapter 13B of the NC Administrative Code. The Section has EPA approval to administer applicable federal regulations, and the NC Environmental Management Commission has authority to adopt or amend solid waste rules. The readoption of all rules was completed in September 2021, with the next ten-year periodic review expected after 2025.

North Carolina's solid waste policy follows a hierarchy established in G.S. 130A-309.04, preferring reduction, reuse, and recycling before disposal. Composting is the first option after recycling. Transfer stations and sanitary landfills for industrial, construction and demolition, or municipal solid waste receive life-of-site permits under G.S. 130A-294(a2). The state currently has municipal solid waste landfills, construction and demolition facilities, and industrial landfills serving communities from the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Counties across North Carolina operate convenience centers where residents can drop off household waste, recyclables, and special items, typically free with proof of residency. Landfill fees range from $30 to $50 per ton, with many counties offering free disposal at convenience centers for household quantities. Commercial rates and large loads are charged by weight according to each county's fee schedule.

The NC General Assembly has established disposal bans on certain materials under G.S. 130A-309.10, including electronics. Computers, TVs, and other electronic devices must be recycled rather than landfilled. Counties provide e-waste collection at convenience centers or through special events, and retailers selling electronics must offer take-back options. Recent permit activity includes draft permits for coal combustion residual (CCR) landfill expansions, such as Duke Energy's Marshall Industrial Landfill in Catawba County.

Coastal counties maintain debris management plans for hurricane response. After major storms, temporary collection sites open to handle vegetative debris, construction materials, and damaged appliances separately. Regular facility hours may be extended during recovery periods. Before visiting any facility, contact your county solid waste department to confirm accepted materials, current fees, and operating hours.