Can I bring unused paint to throw away at the landfill?
Only if the paint is solid or dried up.  Latex type paints can have the lids removed and allowed to dry out.  Oil type paints will not dry out.  An alternative is to bind the paints by painting waste wood or cardboard then bringing the empty paint cans and painted materials.  Some individuals have mixed in sawdust or kitty litter to bind the paint.  The material must meet the Paint Filter Test (EPA Method 9095) - no liquids passing through a paint filter in 5 minutes.

Why don't you burn at the "dump"?
Open burning at landfills became illegal with the passage of Subtitle D regulations in 1991 as well as impacts of the Clean Air Act (CAA). Smoke from burning trash is not healthy.

Do I have to sort my trash?
No, you do not need to sort your trash except for appliances, large bulky metal items, tires, and similar special wastes which must be separated as they have an additional surcharge.  If you wish to receive a discount for compost or construction/demolition debris, the waste must be separated and not contain any contaminants.  If you wish to participate in the recycling initiative, you will have to sort your paper products and metal cans and remove them from plastic bags or other containers before placing in the recycling bins.
 
Can I bring my television and/or computers for disposal?
Only residentially used items can be thrown away in a landfill.  Montezuma County in cooperation with various local counties and communities in Southwest Colorado hosts special e-waste turn in events in April and November every year for proper recycling and disposal.

Why don't we have a household hazardous waste disposal location like Denver, Boulder, Grand Junction, or California?
Although by law household hazardous wastes are "exempt" from hazardous rules and regulations, any non-household that collects, stores and arranges for transportation or disposal may not be exempt.  Checking all the chemicals, making sure they are properly stored and properly prepared for transport and the cost of disposal at a hazardous waste disposal facility is costly.  There are several companies that specialize in this activity but none are located in the immediate area.  An average cost of $150 to $250 per carload is not unusual which is usually funded by taxpayer subsidies in larger communities.  At this time, we offer e-waste, rechargeable battery, appliance (Freon or ammonia), and fluorescent light bulb recycling options for our customers.

Why isn't the landfill open on Sundays?
Historically very few people use the landfill on Sundays which means it is costly to keep open for the few.  These costs would result in higher tip fees for Sunday operations.

When are you going to have later hours?
We have been open later one day a week for the past three summers.  In 2010, we will be open until 5 pm on Thursday evenings beginning June 3, 2010 and ending September 3, 2010.

Why don't county resident's get reduced or free service?
The landfill is operated as an enterprise fund which means it is supported by user fees and not through a mill levy on property or a sales tax levy.  Although we do get some benefits such as reduction in sales taxes paid for goods and services as a county agency, the commissioners have directed that the landfill is to operate as a stand alone self supporting business, i.e. not supported by taxes.

Can I bring a tour group out to see the facility?
Absolutely, we love to show off the facility.  However, we do ask that prior arrangements are made so we can be prepare for such groups. Anyone visiting the landfill will be required to wear pants, shirts and shoes (no open toed sandals allowed). Hardhats will be issued for wearing when on site for the protection of our visitors.

Can I go hunting on the landfill or pass through to go hunting?
No. Laws governing landfills require that access be limited to those customers using the facility for solid waste purposes. The only non solid waste activity occurring on site is the Montezuma County Sheriff shooting range for training and certification of their personnel.

Who do I call if stuff drops out the back of a vehicle (truck, trailer, etc) on the road?
Please contact the Montezuma County Sheriff's Office immediately and be prepared to give date, time, type of material, vehicle description including license plate and any other information.  Unsecured loads of any material, whether gravel, garbage or hay, can result in fines, misdemeanor charges, and points against a driving license.