General guidance from Utah Department of Environmental Quality:

• Sand that has been exposed to runoff is not considered hazardous waste and may be handled as regular waste.

• However, discard (rather than re-use) all bags and sand that have come in contact with floodwaters/runoff since they could be contaminated.

• Precautions should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure.

• Generally, it is recommended that anyone handling sandbags that have been exposed to runoff wear gloves and sturdy shoes to protect against abrasions and possible contaminants.

1. Salt Lake Valley Landfill

• Residents may dispose of sand bags at the public unloading area for the usual flat $16 fee. The flat $16 fee applies to cars, SUVs, pickups with standard cargo beds (up to a 1-Ton pickup), and trailers that are manually (hand) unload only. Trailers being towed by 1-Ton larger trucks are charged the normal $32/ton rate.  Mixed Trash may include garbage, concrete, asphalt, soil, sod, and green waste – Special Items will be an additional charge.

2. Curbside Container

• A maximum of two sandbags bags per week are allowed in Salt Lake City garbage container. Weight limitations are enforced so that containers or trucks are not damaged by excessive weight.

• Please do not place sand or sandbags in the curbside compost (tan) container.

3. Collection Events – Details forthcoming

1. Save for Future Use

• Clean sandbags may be stored and reused. (i.e. those that have not been exposed to runoff)
  • Full sandbags may be reused if stored in a covered location off the ground and can be kept dry to prevent mold.
    • Make sure bags stay covered and dry!

2. Repurpose Clean Sand

• Make a simple soil mix of 60-70% sand and 30-40% compost for use in planters and gardens.

• May be used as a light spread across lawn.

• May be used as base for pavers and patios.