Yard Waste

The proper maintenance of your yard, trees and landscaping shows pride of ownership and is appreciated by your neighbors and the community at large. The proper disposal of yard debris is aimed at environmental concerns as well as community standards of appearance.

The City contracts with Waste Management to pick up and dispose of all solid waste including yard debris. Wednesday is yard waste pick-up day in Cocoa Beach. Small volumes (grass, yard clippings and small cuttings) of yard debris should be placed in a trash can to facilitate pick up. Larger volumes and large limbs and cuttings should be piled at the curb for pick up.

The "clam shell" truck picks up big piles of yard debris. The clam shell truck is so named because the bucket that picks up the debris looks like a clam shell! Please note that clamshell truck will pick up large yard waste piles on Thursdays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave my grass clippings in the street or wash them into the storm drain?

It is a violation of the City Code to leave your grass clippings in the street, curb or gutter. It is also a violation of the City Code to blow them into the storm drain. Grass clippings are one of the primary causes of pollution on the Banana River lagoon. They settle on the bottom of the canals and rivers, decompose into muck that chokes off sunlight reaching underwater vegetation, which cannot survive without the sunlight. Fish and marine mammals need the vegetation to survive.

Violators are subject to fines by the City Code Enforcement officers.

I hired a contractor to trim my trees - should the contractor take the debris away?

The City pays disposal fees at the County landfill for yard debris. Contractors who work in  the City are required to dispose of the debris upon completion of the work by taking the debris with them. To protect yourself from potential legal claims or liabilities, make sure your contractor has the proper permits and insurance coverage. A properly licensed contractor will know and comply with City codes.

I placed a large pile of yard debris next to the curb but the truck did not pick it up - can you tell me why?

Usually this occurs because the debris was piled too close to a tree, pole, hydrant or other structure and the clam shell truck truck was unable to get to the pile with the bucket. When putting large piles of debris out for pick up, make sure it is placed in a clear area with no obstructions.

Who should I call if my yard waste is not picked up as scheduled?

Contact USA Waste Management at (321) 723-4455. If you wish an improved response, contact the City at 868-3219 or 868-3293 or contact us by email.