Grass, leaves, branches and brush are composted into mulch and soil rather than landfilled. Many cities offer seasonal curbside yard-waste pickup plus drop-off sites that sell finished compost back to residents.

In California we list 3 yard waste drop-off locations across 3 cities, with the most in Cutler, El Cerrito and Kerman. Each links to its full page with address, phone and hours.

Yard Waste Drop-Off Locations in California

Pena's Disposal Inc.

📍Cutler · 12094 Avenue 408, Cutler, CA 93615
📞+1 559-528-3909
🕐Today: 5 AM–4 PM
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Mid Valley Disposal & Transfer

📍Kerman · 15300 W Jensen Ave, Kerman, CA 93630
📞+1 559-237-9425
🕐Today: 8 AM–4:30 PM
View Details →

El Cerrito Recycling Center

📍El Cerrito · 7501 Schmidt Ln, El Cerrito, CA 94530
📞+1 510-215-4350
🕐Today: 8:30 AM–4 PM
View Details →

Recycling Yard Waste in California: What to Know

🍂 Leaves & grass
Often collected curbside in paper bags or carts during the growing season.
🌳 Branches & brush
Dropped at compost sites; some chip it into mulch you can take home.

How to Prepare Yard Waste

  • Keep yard waste free of plastic bags, rocks and trash — contamination ruins compost.
  • Bundle or cut branches to the length the site specifies.
  • Many sites sell finished compost and mulch back to residents cheaply.

Yard Waste Recycling FAQ — California

Which California cities have the most yard waste drop-off locations?

The most yard waste drop-offs are in Cutler (1), El Cerrito (1) and Kerman (1). In total we list 3 locations across 3 California cities — all listed above with addresses and hours.

Where can I recycle yard waste in California?

Start with the facilities listed on this page and the full California directory. City compost sites and transfer stations are the usual options; many also offer seasonal curbside pickup. Always call ahead to confirm the item is accepted and whether a fee applies.

Is there a fee to drop off yard waste?

Some sites accept it free; others charge a per-item or per-pound fee because of processing or disposal costs. Fees change, so confirm with the facility before your visit.

Can I put yard waste in my curbside bin?

Usually no — yard waste typically needs a dedicated drop-off rather than the curbside recycling cart. Check your city or county program for its specific rules.

See all yard waste & compost locations by city, the full California recycling directory, or yard waste recycling in New Jersey, North Carolina, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina.