New fees announced for curbside yard waste collection and organic material disposal

Beginning Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the City of Iowa City will implement two new disposal fees following formal approval by the City Council on May 20. The changes are aimed at ensuring stable and sustainable funding for waste management services while moving to an equitable "pay-as-you-throw" system.

Curbside collection of yard waste bags and bundles

Starting July 1, a $2 yard waste sticker will be required for each paper bag or bundle of yard waste placed at the curb for collection using Iowa City curbside collection services. Stickers are available at the City Hall Revenue Office and participating retailers, including both Iowa City ACE Hardware locations and the Hy-Vee stores in Iowa City and Coralville.

Residents are encouraged to use the City-issued yellow-top composting cart to minimize the need for stickers and reduce the physical strain of lifting bags and bundles, improving safety and efficiency for collection crews.

Each household is eligible for one cart, included in the monthly $3.50 composting service fee. Additional carts are available for an extra monthly charge. To request a cart, visit https://www.icgov.org/curbside or call 319-356-5185.

Organic material drop-off at Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center's Compost Facility

A new $5 minimum fee will be applied to all residential and commercial loads of organic material, including food scraps and yard waste, brought to the Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center.

The minimum fee covers loads weighing up to 400 pounds. Loads exceeding that amount will continue to be charged at the standard organic material rate of $24 per ton, consistent with the existing commercial pricing structure.

City officials encourage residents to compost at home whenever possible, helping to reduce the volume of material transported to the landfill for processing.

Additional items to note:

• Yard waste was banned in Iowa landfills by the State Legislature in 1991 and should not be placed in with your trash.
• You may not burn yard waste in Iowa City. Please check with your community for information about burning yard waste.
• Backyard composting is encouraged in Johnson County and may reduce your need for curbside collection or hauling it to the Iowa City Landfill for processing.
• Many communities in Johnson County have curbside organic material collection options for residents. Please contact your community for more information about these services.
• A "pay-as-you-throw" system means that households that produce more material pay more for their disposal.

Resources:

• Information about Iowa City curbside collection services: https://www.icgov.org/curbside
• Information about the Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center: https://www.icgov.org/landfill
• Information about composting at home: https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home

Questions? Please reach out to Jen Jordan, City of Iowa City Resource Management Superintendent, at 319-887-6110 or jejordan@iowa-city.org.