Solid Waste

Solid Waste Management Act of 1991
The Solid Waste Management Act of 1991 establishes Tennessee's regional approach to planning and managing municipal solid waste. Municipalities that collect or dispose of solid waste are entitled to representation on their region's solid waste planning board. Regional solid waste plans guide the development of solid waste facilities and include review of proposed new or expanded Class I landfills and incinerators in accordance with state law. T.C.A. §§ 68-211-813–817.

The Act authorizes regions to impose and collect solid waste disposal fees. Revenue from these fees may be used to establish and maintain solid waste collection and disposal services, including convenience centers and collection programs for waste tires, lead-acid batteries, used oil, and other recyclable materials. Municipalities and counties must use the uniform solid waste financial accounting system developed by the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury. T.C.A. §§ 68-211-835, 68-211-866, 68-211-874.

Regional solid waste needs assessments must be updated every five years in accordance with state law.

State law prohibits the unauthorized disposal of solid waste into the waters of the state, the open burning of solid waste except as authorized by law, and the construction or operation of solid waste processing or disposal facilities in violation of applicable statutes, rules, or permits. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has primary responsibility for regulating solid waste processing and disposal facilities throughout the state. T.C.A. §§ 68-211-104–109.

Transporting Solid Waste
Refuse, garbage, and other solid waste must be transported in a closed-body vehicle or be securely covered to prevent material from escaping during transport. T.C.A. § 39-14-507.