Landfills & Dumps in Wyoming

Wyoming's solid waste management is regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Solid and Hazardous Waste Division (SHWD) under state law requiring all solid waste to be disposed of, treated, or recycled at designated facilities approved by both SHWD and local governing bodies with jurisdiction. The Solid Waste Program oversees these facilities, issuing permits and assisting with design, construction, operation, and monitoring. Proper design, construction, operation, monitoring, closure, and post-closure care are critical because disposed waste can threaten human health and the environment for decades to centuries.

The Solid Waste Permitting and Corrective Action Program announced the 2025 Solid Waste Training Program with topics based on 2024 participant feedback, followed by the first half of the 2026 program. While these trainings and webinars are not required by Solid Waste Rules, they help facility operators, managers, and consultants better understand regulatory requirements. Electronic document submittal is available for work plans, reports, general correspondence, and permit applications.

Municipal landfills in Wyoming charge $20 to $35 per ton, often lower than national averages. Some communities include disposal costs in utility fees, and self-haul fees depend on load size and facility. Many communities operate small landfills or transfer stations, with some remote areas using collection containers serviced periodically. Given Wyoming's sparse population and vast distances, facilities may be far apart, affecting convenience and costs.

Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) from coal-fired power plants are managed in surface impoundments, landfills, or beneficially reused in products like concrete. The Wyoming CCR Permit Program requires owners of CCR disposal facilities to obtain permits. EPA held a public hearing on October 30, 2025, regarding Wyoming's CCR program, with final decision expected to be published in the Federal Register.

Industrial waste from oil and gas operations requires disposal at specially permitted facilities separate from municipal landfills, with the industry operating dedicated disposal sites. Larger communities like Cheyenne and Casper have household hazardous waste collection programs, while rural areas rely on periodic collection events that may be infrequent. The SHWD Inspection and Compliance team ensures compliance with Wyoming Solid and Hazardous Waste Rules. Before visiting any facility, contact DEQ or the facility directly to confirm accepted materials and fees.