Landfill Safety Policy

NEW Safety Policy

Effective: April 15, 2024


We are committed to providing safe and efficient waste disposal services to the residents of Watertown and surrounding areas. As part of our ongoing efforts to prioritize safety for both customers and employees, we are implementing new safety protocols for those customers entering the Landfill Cell, effective April 15, 2024.  

After a comprehensive review of our landfill operations, several areas of improvement were identified, leading to the development of enhanced safety measures. These changes will primarily impact commercial customers.  Those bringing trash to the landfill and hand unloading your vehicle or trailer, disposing of appliances & scrap metal, trees & branches, or picking up compost will not be affected by these new safety protocols.

Key changes include:

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirement: All customers entering the Landfill Cell will be required to wear a Hi-Viz garment (jacket, sweatshirt, vest, etc.) on their upper torso and a hard hat upon exiting their vehicle. Loaner sets will be provided for those without PPE for an initial 30-day period. PPE not returned will be charged to the corresponding account.
  • Follow Directions of Site Personnel: We ask that drivers heed instructions from site personnel, particularly in the tipping face area. Failure to comply may result in instructions to re-enter the queuing line.
  • Vehicle Spacing Requirement: Designated Tipping Lanes have been created to ensure a safe distance of 15 feet between vehicles. End or side dump trailers will be spaced accordingly.
  • Outside The Truck: Only the driver will be permitted to exit the vehicle in the tipping area, and drivers must always remain within 6 feet of their vehicle.
  • Truck Clean-Out: After tipping, trucks are requested to promptly move away from the tipping area to allow others to enter. A designated clean-out area will be provided for convenience and helpers will be allowed in this area.
  • Speed Limit: The speed limit on-site is 15 mph, and customers are asked to adhere to this limit to ensure safety for all.
  • Cell Phone Use and Smoking: Cell phone use and smoking are prohibited upon entry to the Watertown Landfill.
  • Site Signage: New signage will be installed around the landfill to assist with navigation and reinforce the new policies.

These changes reflect our renewed commitment to embrace safety as a core value, and in this way, provide a secure environment for all patrons of the Watertown Landfill.

We understand that these adjustments may require some adaptation, and we appreciate the cooperation and understanding of our valued customers and stakeholders.

For more information about the upcoming policy changes, please visit watertownsd.us or contact the Landfill directly at 605.753.3108.

We thank the community for its continued support and cooperation as we work together to ensure a safer and more efficient landfill operation.