Alameda County to enforce ban on plant debris in landfills

Dec. 18 -- Landscapers and gardeners in Alameda County will have to be vigilant about separation of yard waste from trash or they will face fines starting next year.

The California county said it will begin enforcing its landfill ban that requires plant debris be separated and sent to "clean green" areas of disposal facilities.

The ban was put into place early this year, but fines have been delayed until Jan. 1, 2010, according to StopWaste.Org, the Alameda County Solid Waste Management Authority. Warnings have been issued throughout the year.

People will face fines of $100, $200 and $500 for their first, second and third violations within a year, the county said.

"It´s important that all organizations that generate plant debris -- everyone from municipalities and businesses, to independent gardeners and landscapers -- understand the importance of adhering to this ban," says Tom Padia, source reduction and recycling director at StopWaste.Org. "With a small amount of effort, landscapers can help us reduce waste and create compost and mulch."

Contact Waste & Recycling News senior reporter Jim Johnson at 937-964-1289 or jpjohnson@crain.com