Aug 15, 2023

New construction and demolition pit opens at Ellis County Landfill

Posted Aug 15, 2023 3:42 PM
Ellis County Landfill, 1515 W. 55th St., Hays.  Courtesy Ellis County
Ellis County Landfill, 1515 W. 55th St., Hays.  Courtesy Ellis County

ELLIS COUNTY

The Ellis County Environmental Services Department opens a new construction and demolition pit on Wednesday

The opening of the new pit marks the completion of an over two-year long project.

Land for the Ellis County Landfill expansion was purchased back in 2020. Time from the land acquisition to today was spent obtaining permitting and completing construction.

Construction of the expansion was entirely completed by Ellis County employees, equating in more than $100,000 of savings in the Solid Waste budget. 

The new construction and demolition cell is split into a southern and northern half. Presently, dumping is only permitted in the southern portion. The dumping area will progress south, until its full. At that time, dumping will begin filling in the north.

This new cell is projected to last approximately eight years, and future expansion cells are already planned for the property. 

The new cell is located at the Ellis County Landfill, 1515 W. 55th St., Hays.

Customers will follow normal check-in procedures at the scale house, then continue west past the former construction and demolition pit. From the former pit, follow the curve to the north.

“Go slow and keep right as you enter the new landing area,” says Solid Waste Director Justin Craig. "Be mindful of other drivers, as this is a new practice for everyone.”

All dumping will be at the south face of the landing area.

Drivers are directed to pull into the area to the north, and back vehicles south. When exiting, keep right, take your time, and watch for traffic while exiting the area back to the scale house. Solid waste staff are available at the scale house to answer questions or provide guidance if needed. 

Accepted material at the construction and demolition pit includes, but is not limited to concrete, wood, drywall, roofing materials, bricks, fiberglass, and additional construction and demolition debris.

The current tipping fee is $45 per ton, with a $10 minimum (440 pounds or less).

Ellis County Solid Waste operating hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday. No dumping is allowed 15 minutes prior to close. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the expansion, please contact Justin Craig, Ellis County environmental service director, at 785-628-9449.