Landfills & Dumps in Tennessee

Tennessee's solid waste management is regulated by the Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Division of Solid Waste Management under Rule Chapter 0400-11-01, with regulations available through the Tennessee Secretary of State website. The Division regulates solid waste storage, processing, and disposal facilities to protect public health and the environment, with authority to inspect facilities without announcement, terminate permits, or deny renewals for non-compliance. Penalties range from administrative orders to fines up to $5,000 per day per violation.

Tennessee classifies disposal facilities into four classes: Class I takes non-hazardous municipal solid waste including household waste, approved special wastes, and commercial waste; Class II takes non-hazardous industrial waste, commercial waste, and fill; Class III takes Class IV wastes plus landscaping, land clearing, and farming waste; Class IV takes construction and demolition waste, shredded tires, and similar materials. Landfills cannot accept whole, unshredded waste tires for disposal under TN Rule Chapter 0400-11-01.

Counties across Tennessee operate convenience centers where residents can drop off household waste, recyclables, and bulky items, most free with proof of residency. Landfill fees range from $30 to $50 per ton, with Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville area facilities potentially having different rate structures. Electronics are accepted at many convenience centers for recycling, though TVs and monitors may carry fees.

Tennessee has no statewide electronics recycling law, landfill ban, or producer responsibility requirement for e-waste as of 2025. However, business and institutional electronic scrap often qualifies as special waste under Rule 0400-11-01, triggering mandatory special handling requirements for landfill disposal. On August 13, 2025, the Tennessee Underground Storage Tanks and Solid Waste Disposal Control Board adopted new rules for managing contaminated soil at redevelopment sites, giving developers multiple options for reuse and disposal.

The 2015-2025 Solid Waste and Materials Management Plan adopts sustainable materials management concepts, fulfilling the policy statements of the Solid Waste Management Act of 1991 to protect public health, enhance environmental quality, and maintain a comprehensive statewide solid waste management system. Before visiting any facility, contact TDEC or your county solid waste department for accepted materials, current fees, and operating hours.