Department of Health and Human Services
Solid Waste Removal

Unlike many of the cities and towns in New Jersey, Vernon Township does not provide municipal garbage removal. Some homeowner's associations within the township contract with private garbage purveyors who are paid for this service from the collection of dues or property maintenance fees. Sometimes these services are only for the summer months and the residents must hire a licensed solid waste hauler for the months not covered by the contract, or regularly bring their garbage to the MUA themselves. Most residents must hire, for the entire year, a garbage collection service or regularly bring their solid waste and garbage to the Sussex County MUA Landfill (Route 94, Lafayette) at their convenience for a nominal fee. The landfill is open Monday-Saturday, 7am to 2pm.

When storing garbage for collection, Vernon Township local ordinance requires that it must be stored in intact, watertight containers (plastic or metal) with tight fitting lids. Good quality garbage cans will help control garbage odors, thereby reducing the attraction of wildlife. Some having locking lids which prevent smaller members of the wildlife community from entering your garbage cans and scattering these materials around the neighborhood. A small amount of household bleach sprinkled on top of the garbage also helps discourage wildlife from entering your garbage.

Smaller solid waste items (other than food garbage) must also be stored in similar containers prior to removal. A dumpster may be rented from a local sanitation company for large quantities and/or larger items.

Please remember to remove all recyclable materials and bring them to our recycling center on Church Street across from the Municipal Building. Not only is recycling required by law, but also reduces overall energy and natural resource consumption and effectively extends the functional use of our county's only active landfill.

Violations of our local solid waste code can result in summonses being issued so please call us if you have questions or are unsure of the requirements for storing and/or disposing of these materials.