Iowa City Landfill & Recycling Drop-Off: Hours, Map
Use this guide before you load the car, pickup, van, or trailer. It explains the official Iowa City Landfill hours, Saturday noon gate rule, service-area limits, fees, recycling drop-off choices, hazardous-material hours, compost rules, rejected-load risks, map directions, and what to do instead when an item should not go into garbage.
3900 Hebl Avenue SW, Iowa City is the official Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center address.
Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Saturday: 7:00 AM to noon.
Landfill: 319-356-5185. Call for windy days, holidays, asbestos, unusual waste, construction changes, or a large mixed load.
Fast Answer: Iowa City Landfill Hours, Address and Phone
The Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center is at 3900 Hebl Avenue SW, Iowa City. Normal facility hours are Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:30 PM, and Saturday, 7:00 AM-noon. The site is closed on City holidays and windy days, and the office is not open to the public.
The facility serves residential and commercial customers in Johnson County and within the city limits of Kalona and Riverside. Materials from outside that service area are not accepted. That rule matters before you haul a trailer or pay someone to load a truck.
The fastest way to avoid a rejected load is to separate your vehicle before arrival: garbage, cardboard, electronics, appliances, oil, tires, yard waste, compost, shingles, and hazardous material do not all follow the same route. Some items are banned from garbage and must be recycled or handled separately.
Screenshot Guide: Official Iowa City Landfill Hours, Address and Gate Rule
This screenshot belongs near the hours section because most visitors need to confirm the official address, Saturday gate rule, service-area limit, HHM hours, and closure warnings before loading a vehicle. Treat it as a user-help visual reference, not as a live open-status proof.
Image description: The screenshot helps readers recognize where the official Iowa City Landfill information appears and why the Saturday noon gate rule, windy-day warning, service-area rule, and hazardous-material hours should be checked before a trip.
Helpful Video: Iowa City Landfill Virtual Tour
This video is useful because the landfill has multiple visitor flows: Scalehouse payment, self-service recycling, HHM lane access, compost drop-off, and landfill unloading. No VideoObject schema is added because a verified thumbnail URL and full ISO uploadDate were not confirmed.
On This Page
- What this facility is
- Hours and Saturday gate rule
- Which drop-off route to use
- Fees and payment
- Accepted recycling items
- Electronics and appliances
- Compost and 2026 construction
- Hazardous material hours
- Not allowed in garbage
- Recycling alternatives
- Common mistakes
- Before-you-go checklist
- Map and directions
- FAQ
Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Drop-Off Overview
The Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center is not just a trash dump. It is a landfill, recycling drop-off site, electronics and appliance recycling point, compost facility, hazardous-material collection facility, special-waste intake point, and Scalehouse payment location. That is why one “landfill” trip can involve several different rules.
The most important planning step is sorting your load before you leave. Garbage, cardboard, electronics, batteries, oil, appliances, tires, yard waste and hazardous materials should not all be treated as one garbage load. Several items are not allowed to be landfilled and must use a recycling, composting, hazardous-material or fee-based route.
Iowa City Landfill Hours, Open Today and Saturday Gate Rule
Normal Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center hours are Monday-Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturday from 7:00 AM to noon. The landfill is closed on City holidays and windy days. If you are checking “open today,” verify the official page or call before driving with a large, fee-based, or weather-sensitive load.
| Service / Situation | Hours or Rule | What It Means for Visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Main landfill and recycling center | Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:30 PM | Best window for garbage, fee-based recycling, electronics, appliances, compost and Scalehouse questions. |
| Saturday access | Saturday, 7:00 AM-noon | Arrive early. The entrance gate closes at noon. |
| Saturday noon gate rule | Gate closes at noon | Vehicles waiting outside the gate at noon must return during open hours. |
| City holidays | Closed | Check before going near major holidays or City-observed closure dates. |
| Windy days | May close early | Call first when weather is windy, especially with loose trash, cardboard or an open trailer. |
| Residential hazardous material | Thursday-Friday, 7:00 AM-2:00 PM; Saturday, 7:00 AM-noon | Do not bring HHM outside these special hours. |
Which Iowa City Drop-Off Route Should You Use?
The best article for this topic must solve the “where do I take this item?” problem, not just list hours. Use this decision table before you drive so your item goes to the correct route.
| Your Load | Correct Route | Do This First |
|---|---|---|
| Normal garbage | Scalehouse lane 2, then landfill unloading route | Remove cardboard, appliances, tires, oil, batteries, yard waste, monitors and TVs first. |
| Cardboard, paper, cans, glass, plastic bottles/tubs | Recycling drop-off or curbside recycling if eligible | Flatten cardboard, rinse containers and keep recyclables out of plastic bags. |
| TVs, computers, small electronics, appliances | Fee-based recycling at the landfill or approved ReStore route where applicable | Pay the correct fee and remove personal data from devices. |
| Food waste, leaves, brush, yard waste | Compost Facility at the landfill | Keep out plastic bags, trash, glass, metal, rocks, animal waste and hazardous materials. |
| Paint, chemicals, sharps, vapes, fire extinguishers | Hazardous Material Collection Facility | Use HHM hours only and bring secure-lid containers that can be left at the facility. |
| Clean asphalt shingles | Shingle recycling at the landfill | Keep the load clean: shingles only; nails are allowed, but wood, trash, gutters and packaging are not. |
Iowa City Landfill Fees, Recycling Fees and Payment
Fees are not one-size-fits-all. Garbage, electronics, appliances, tires, shingles, compost, light fixtures and propane or helium tanks are handled differently. Some recycling is no cost; other items require payment at the Scalehouse in lane 2.
| Material / Service | Listed Fee / Rule | Practical Note |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa City regular garbage | $14 for loads under 600 pounds; $47.50/ton listed rate | Additional weight is charged after 600 pounds. |
| Allowed non-Iowa City garbage | $15 for loads under 600 pounds; $52.50/ton listed rate | Only Johnson County and Kalona/Riverside city limits are served. |
| Computers | $20 each | Fee includes components; remove personal data first. |
| Televisions | $20 each | Do not put TVs in landfill garbage. |
| Other electronic items | $3 each | Examples include printers, phones, DVD players, cameras, stereos and radios. |
| Small appliances | $3 each | Examples include vacuums, toasters, blenders, coffee makers, lamps, irons and humidifiers. |
| Large appliances | $12.50 per appliance | Large commercial appliances have a separate cubic-foot fee. |
| Grills / exercise equipment | $3 each | Separate from ordinary garbage when possible. |
| Residential propane / helium tanks | $1 each | Residential-sized tanks only. |
| Tires | $0.15 per pound; $3 minimum | Tires are not landfill garbage. |
| Clean asphalt shingles | $30/ton | Contaminated loads can be charged as regular trash. |
| Compost facility organic loads | $5 minimum up to 400 pounds; $24/ton over 400 pounds | Applies to residential and commercial organic material loads. |
| Light fixtures | $3 without PCBs; $12.50 with PCBs | Residential CFL and LED tube/bulb recycling is listed at no cost. |
Accepted Recycling Drop-Off Items and Preparation Rules
The landfill and the City’s recycling drop-off system accept many materials, but preparation matters. Rinse containers, keep paper dry, flatten cardboard, do not bag recyclables, and follow posted labels at the recycling area.
| Accepted Category | Examples | Preparation Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Cardboard | Corrugated cardboard | Flatten and size pieces to a maximum of 2 by 2 feet. |
| Glass | Food and beverage bottles and jars, all colors | Empty and rinse. Do not include mirrors, ceramics, Pyrex or bulbs. |
| Metal cans and foil | Food cans, drink cans, aluminum pie pans and foil | Empty and rinse. Foil should be in at least a two-inch ball. |
| Paper | Newspapers, magazines, office paper, junk mail, paperboard, paperback books and cartons | Keep dry and out of plastic bags. |
| Plastic containers | Bottles, jugs, jars and round tubs | Empty and rinse; leave caps on. |
| Oil | Motor oil, vegetable oil and oil filters | Bring liquid in sealed, labeled plastic bottles under five gallons with secure lids. Do not pour it yourself. |
| Books and media | Hardcover books, softcover books, DVDs and audiobooks on CD | Use the collection bins in the electronics recycling garage bay. |
Electronics, TVs, Computers, Appliances and Data Safety
Electronics and appliances are a major reason residents search for Iowa City recycling drop-off. Computers and televisions are listed at $20 each, other electronic items and small appliances at $3 each, and holiday light strands and electronic cords at no cost. Large appliances follow a different fee route.
Compost, Yard Waste, Food Waste and 2026 Construction
Yard waste is not allowed to be landfilled in Iowa landfills, and open burning is prohibited in Iowa City. Food waste and yard waste go through the Compost Facility at 3900 Hebl Avenue SW, not the garbage route.
The Compost Facility fee is listed as a $5 minimum for loads up to 400 pounds and $24 per ton over 400 pounds. Large stumps and stumps with root balls may be charged as special waste, so call before hauling heavy tree material.
In 2026, Compost Facility construction is scheduled to improve and expand the site. The City warns that construction may change traffic patterns and drop-off areas, so follow posted signs and check the official page before a compost-heavy trip.
Hazardous Material Collection Facility Hours, Lane 1 and Swap Shop
The Hazardous Material Collection Facility has separate hours from the main landfill. Residential hazardous material drop-off is open Thursday and Friday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Saturday from 7:00 AM to noon. Small business hazardous material drop-off is by appointment only.
For residential HHM, the City instructs visitors to inventory items, keep them in original sealed upright containers, label unmarked containers, never mix chemicals, visit only during open hours, pull through Lane 1, and park under the overhang. Containers must have secure lids and be left at the facility; empty containers are not returned.
| HHM Item / Issue | What to Know | Practical Action |
|---|---|---|
| Oil-based paint | Hazardous material for service-area residents. | Bring during HHM hours, not as regular trash. |
| Latex paint | Not treated the same as oil-based paint. | Dry or thicken it first, then dispose of it in regular trash. |
| Nicotine vapes | Accepted at no cost during residential HHM hours; THC vapes are not accepted. | Do not disassemble. If leaking, place in a sealed small plastic baggie. |
| Sharps and syringes | Must not go in trash, recycling or composting. | Use a proper rigid, secure-lid container. Do not bring loose sharps. |
| Fire extinguishers | Expired or used fire extinguishers are accepted at the HHM facility. | Use HHM hours or check official alternate locations. |
| Swap Shop | Open Thursday-Friday, 7:00 AM-2:00 PM, and Saturday, 7:00 AM-noon. | Hosts gently used items such as paints, automotive fluids and cleaners for reuse. |
Items Not Allowed in Landfill Garbage
The biggest rejected-load problem is treating banned or special items as regular trash. Iowa City guidance says yard waste, cardboard, computer and TV monitors, tires, appliances, lead-acid batteries and oil are not allowed to be landfilled and must use the proper recycling or handling route.
Recycling Drop-Off Alternatives in Iowa City
If you only have common recyclables, you may not need the landfill. Iowa City lists other drop-off options, including East Side Recycling Center and Sturgis Ferry Park Recycling Center. These alternatives can be better for smaller recycling-only trips.
| Location | Best For | Important Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center 3900 Hebl Avenue SW |
Garbage, recycling, electronics, appliances, tires, compost, hazardous material and special waste. | Use official hours, fees and Scalehouse rules. |
| East Side Recycling Center 2401 Scott Blvd. SE |
Cardboard, paper, glass, plastic, metal, oil and wine corks. | Parking-lot recycling and oil shed are listed as 24/7 at no cost; ReStore-related services follow staffed hours. |
| Sturgis Ferry Park Recycling Center 1700 South Riverside Drive |
Cardboard, glass, metal cans/foil, paper and accepted plastic containers. | Listed as 24/7 on the City recycling page. |
Common Mistakes That Waste Time or Get Loads Rejected
Before-You-Go Checklist for a Smooth Landfill Visit
- Confirm service area. Make sure the material comes from Johnson County or within the city limits of Kalona or Riverside.
- Check the correct hours. Main landfill hours, Saturday gate rules and HHM hours are different.
- Sort your load before driving. Separate garbage, cardboard, electronics, appliances, oil, tires, yard waste, compost and hazardous material.
- Secure the load. Cover or tie down materials so nothing blows out during transport.
- Use the right lane. Lane 2 is used for Scalehouse payment; HHM instructions send residents through Lane 1.
- Arrive early on Saturdays. The gate closes at noon, and outside-line vehicles must return later.
- Call for unusual material. Asbestos, special waste, business hazardous material, heavy stumps, large commercial appliances and mixed loads should be checked before hauling.
Iowa City Landfill & Recycling Center Map and Directions
Use the map for directions to 3900 Hebl Avenue SW, Iowa City. For the final word on hours, fees, closures, accepted items and construction-related traffic changes, use the official City page or call before driving.
Independent guide note: Recycling-Centre.org is not the official City of Iowa City website. This is a practical planning guide. Always verify current hours, fees, closure notices, construction traffic changes and material rules on the official City site before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa City Landfill & Recycling Drop-Off
Where is Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center?
It is located at 3900 Hebl Avenue SW, Iowa City. Use the map section for directions and verify the official City page before driving with a full or fee-based load.
What are Iowa City Landfill hours?
Normal hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturday from 7:00 AM to noon. The landfill is closed on City holidays and windy days.
Is Iowa City Landfill open on Saturday?
Yes. Saturday hours are 7:00 AM to noon. The entrance gate closes at noon, and vehicles waiting outside the gate at noon must return during open hours.
Is Iowa City Landfill open on Sunday?
Sunday is not listed as a normal open day for the Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center. Use weekday or Saturday hours unless the City posts a special update.
What is the phone number for Iowa City Landfill?
The landfill phone number is 319-356-5185. For recycling program questions, the Recycling Coordinator is listed at 319-887-6110.
Who can use Iowa City Landfill?
The facility serves residential and commercial customers in Johnson County and within the city limits of Kalona and Riverside. Materials from outside the service area are not accepted.
What payment methods are accepted?
The landfill accepts cash, checks and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express, Apple Pay and Tap to Pay.
Can I bring hazardous material anytime?
No. Residential hazardous material drop-off is Thursday and Friday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Saturday from 7:00 AM to noon. Small business drop-off is by appointment only.
Can I throw cardboard away at the landfill?
No. Cardboard is not allowed to be thrown in the trash and must be recycled. Garbage loads with cardboard may be charged double the regular tipping fee.
Are TVs and computers accepted?
Yes, but they are fee-based recycling items. Computers and televisions are listed at $20 each. Remove personal data from computers and devices before recycling.
What happens if my load is not secured?
Vehicles with unsecured loads receive one warning without charge. Each later unsecured-load violation is listed as a $50 fee.
Where can I recycle if I do not need the landfill?
For smaller recycling-only trips, check East Side Recycling Center at 2401 Scott Blvd. SE or Sturgis Ferry Park Recycling Center at 1700 South Riverside Drive. The City recycling page lists hours and accepted materials.
Is this the official Iowa City Landfill website?
No. This is an independent user-help guide. Use the official City of Iowa City links on this page for current hours, fees, accepted items and closure notices.
Final Local Summary
For Iowa City landfill and recycling drop-off, use 3900 Hebl Avenue SW, plan for Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-4:30 PM or Saturday 7:00 AM-noon, and remember the Saturday gate closes at noon. Sort your load before you leave, secure it, and keep banned landfill items out of garbage.