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Food Scraps

Some types of this item are banned from disposal in the trash in Vermont. For more information, see below.

Disposal Options

Per Act 148, Vermont's Universal Recycling Law, all food scraps, including those generated by residents, apartments, households, housing complexes, businesses and institutions are banned from the landfill. We encourage you to use the Food Recovery Hierarchy established by Act 148 to guide you to the best use of your food scraps. Food waste can be reduced and edible food can be donated. Food scraps can be composted at home, fed to chickens, or brought to town drop-offs or the District Transfer Station. Check out these tips for collecting food scraps at home and our Frequently Asked Questions about food scrap collection.

Food scraps accepted at drop-offs & District Transfer Station: 

  • Fruit & vegetable scraps 
  • Coffee grounds & filters 
  • Tea bags (paper only) & loose tea
  • Meat, bones, shellfish & seafood
  • Bread & pasta, rice & grains
  • Cheese & dairy
  • Soups and sauces
  • Oils & fats
  • Eggs & egg shells

Not accepted:

  • Produce stickers
  • Plastic products of any kind
  • Paper products
  • “Compostable” products such as plates, utensils and bags
  • Twist ties
  • Human or pet waste

Cost

Check with your town drop-off or hauler for the cost for dropping off food scraps or getting them collected. The rates for food scraps at the District Transfer Station are listed below.

Food Waste

  • Residential only, containers up to 5-gal: $1.00
  • Business, containers up to 5-gal: $1.00 each
  • Business, 32-gallon container: $15 each
  • Business, 48-gallon container: $20 each 

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