Frequently Asked Questions

f your household garbage weighs 1 ton or less, you can dispose of it at the transfer station free of charge. For anything over 1 ton, a tipping fee applies based on weight, with a maximum charge of $57.62 per ton.

Dumpsites are available for all Emanuel County residents, so you’re free to use the location that’s most convenient for you.

All business-related waste is charged a tipping fee at the transfer station. The fee is based on weight and capped at $57.62 per ton, no matter the total volume.

As a non-revenue department, Emanuel County’s Solid Waste Department exists to serve the community, not to generate profit. Tipping fees are implemented solely to help cover the cost of operations, including maintaining dumpsites and transfer station services. These fees also play a vital role in keeping Emanuel County landfill-free by offsetting the expense of transporting trash to out-of-county landfills, ensuring our waste management system remains efficient and sustainable.

We have 20 dumpsites, and we've provided their respective addresses on our Dumpsite Locations page.

Yes. Residents must adhere to operating hours, only dispose of permitted waste, and avoid overloading dumpsters. Cameras monitor all dumpsites, and violators may be ticketed for illegal dumping or misuse.

Bag all household garbage securely before bringing it to the dumpsites or transfer station. This helps maintain a clean and efficient waste management process.

Absolutely! A staff member will be on-site to assist you during operating hours. Here’s how it works:

• Arrive prepared. Safely load your trash and bring it to the transfer station.
• Check in. Upon entering the gates, stop and check in with the staff member.
• Weigh your load. Drive across the scale so the staff can determine the weight of your trash.
• Unload. The staff will help unload your trash quickly and efficiently.
• Pay if needed. If your load exceeds the 1-ton free limit or is business-related, you’ll pay your ticket based on the weight.

Once everything is unloaded and taken care of, you’ll be on your way! It’s a simple, straightforward process, and our team is always happy to guide you.

The transfer station cannot accept concrete, asphalt, batteries, hazardous materials, asbestos, or limb debris.

Visit our Special Waste Disposal page for guidance on handling hazardous materials, electronics, construction debris, and more.

These items are hazardous and require specialized handling to prevent harm to the environment and public health. Refer to our Special Waste Disposal page for appropriate alternatives.

If you’re unsure, consider the size and type of your waste. Items like furniture, appliances, or construction debris may require special disposal services. Contact the solid waste department for guidance.

Once collected at the transfer station, trash is separated and sent to a landfill in another county through a third-party contractor. This ensures waste is managed responsibly and sustainably.

You can report illegal dumping directly to the Emanuel County Building Inspection and Code Enforcement Department or the Emanuel County Sheriff's Office. Alternatively, you can file a report online using our Report a Code Violation Form.

Emanuel County does not currently offer recycling services at the dumpsites or transfer station. Residents may access recycling options through private or retail programs.

While the department doesn’t provide direct event services, we can advise on disposal options for large gatherings. For temporary dumpsters or increased waste pickup, contact a private waste hauler.