Westfield Conservation Center: 2026 Permits, Fees & Drop-Off Guide

The Westfield Conservation Center reopened for the 2026 organic waste season on March 19, giving residents access to one of the most comprehensive local recycling and disposal programs in Union County. Union County Life has compiled everything Westfield residents need to know about permits, fees, accepted materials, and special drop-off programs at the Center on Lamberts Mill Road.

The Town of Westfield has operated the Conservation Center for over 30 years. It is classified by the State of New Jersey as a transfer facility for organic waste and recyclable materials, serving as a staging area before materials are transported to approved disposal sites.

Organic Waste Permits

The 2026 seasonal permit for organic waste disposal costs $60 for Westfield residents and $120 for non-residents. Permits went on sale March 9 and are sold online only. No permits are sold at the Center itself. Organic waste accepted under this permit includes grass, twigs, shrubs, and small logs.

Bulk Waste and Mattress Disposal

Single-use permits for bulk household waste are priced by vehicle type. Westfield residents pay $40 per passenger vehicle, $60 per SUV, and $80 per pickup truck. Non-residents pay $60, $80, and $100 respectively. Additional charges may apply based on load volume.

Mattresses and box springs cost $35 per item to dispose of, regardless of residency.

Free Recycling Drop-Off for Residents

All Westfield residents may drop off a wide range of materials at no cost and without a permit. The list includes household alkaline batteries, clothing and shoes, linens, luggage, scrap metal, plastic bags and film, styrofoam (white and clean only), string lights, toys in good condition, wine corks, tennis balls, stuffed animals, fluorescent light bulbs under four feet in length, ink and toner cartridges, and household electronics.

Non-residents must obtain an annual recycling permit for $35, or a combined recycling and organic waste permit for $145.

Food Waste Program

The Center accepts food waste of nearly all types, including dairy, fruits, grains, meats, and seafood (shells excluded). Food waste can be dropped off in any packaging except glass containers or black plastic bags. The material is converted into biofuel through a partnership with Waste Management, and it helps power the Rahway Valley Sewerage Authority.

Athletic Equipment and School Supplies

Two newer drop-off categories are now accepted. Athletic equipment is accepted as a new program in 2026. New or gently used school supplies, including backpacks, lunch bags, and pencil cases, are also accepted.

Free Firewood and Mulch

Residents using the Center may pick up free firewood and mulch when available. There is no permit required for this.

Home Pickup Through Helpsy

The Town has partnered with Helpsy, a certified B corporation, for home pickup of clothing, footwear, linens, accessories, luggage, and stuffed animals. Residents can schedule a pickup directly through the Helpsy website.

Landscape Contractors

Landscapers serving Westfield residents may register with the Department of Public Works to access the Center for leaf drop-off and to purchase wood chips at $15 per cubic yard, logs at $125 per cord, or firewood at $75 per half cord. Registration is done in person at 959 N Avenue W, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Payment must be made by check or money order. This program has been in place since 2017 and is separate from the general landscaping registration ordinance adopted in April 2021.

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