As spring approaches, the City of Moorhead is preparing to help residents with yard waste disposal and brush pickup services. Here’s what residents need to know about upcoming services:
Yard Waste Roll-Off Containers Available Week of March 31
Roll-off containers will be placed throughout the city for grass clippings and leaves only. Residents are reminded that branches and plastic bags are not allowed in these containers.
Curbside Yard Waste Collection & Compost Site Opening April 14
Starting April 14, the City will begin curbside yard waste pickup. Residents who do not want to wait for their garbage day can haul wood debris to the City’s Compost Site. Woody debris larger than 8 inches in diameter is subject to a disposal fee.
Important Reminders: Please do not drop off tree branches at the City's recycling drop-off locations—these sites are for grass clippings and leaves only. Grass and leaves need to be in 32-gallon garbage cans, paper bags or biodegradable plastic bags. Yard waste is not to be put in your recycling container.
Curbside Brush & Branch Pickup Begins May 5
The City's curbside brush and branch chipping service will operate every other week on residents' recycling day from May 5 to September 26, 2025.
Until May 5, brush pickup is available on a call-in basis only—residents may request service by calling 218.299.5422 or submitting a request online.
Brush Pickup Guidelines:
- Pile Size Limit: 12 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4 feet high (larger piles will be partially chipped, with the remainder left for the next scheduled pickup).
- Branch Diameter: 8 inches or smaller.
- Placement: Place branches on the boulevard, not in alleys.
- No Bundling: Do not bundle or place branches in bags, garbage cans, or wheelbarrows.
- Prohibited Materials: No root balls, leaves, trash, lumber, or construction materials.
The chipping service is for residents who prune trees on their own property. Any debris generated by contractors will not be collected by the City.
Supporting Pollinators During Spring Cleanup
Residents are encouraged to consider pollinator-friendly practices when cleaning up their yards. Many beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, overwinter in dead plant material. To support a healthy pollinator population:
- Delay cleanup until temperatures consistently reach 50°F.
- Leave dead or dying branches in a pile until late spring.
- Consider planting native pollinator-friendly plants.
For more information on yard waste disposal, brush pickup, and compost site details, visit www.moorheadmn.gov or call 218.299.5422.
