Layton City is a member of the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District (the District), which includes all Davis County cities (except Bountiful), as well as Morgan County and Morgan City. When the District was originally formed, its member communities were significantly smaller and relied on regional cooperation for waste management. However, as these communities have grown, the benefits of District membership have significantly decreased – particularly for Layton City. After carefully evaluating its options, the City has identified more cost-effective and efficient waste management solutions.
In late 2023, the Layton City Council was notified that the District planned to implement a mandatory recycling program for all Layton residents. This program would require residents to pay an estimated $6.50 per month in recycling fees, with additional and significant financial penalties imposed on the City for noncompliance. Layton City officials repeatedly engaged with the District to explore alternatives, including the adoption of Layton City Resolution 24-04, but the District refused to make meaningful changes. Although a minor adjustment was later introduced as an “incentive” for mandatory recycling, it failed to offer a true alternative.
As a result, Layton City is now exploring options to leave the District while ensuring residents continue to receive high-quality waste collection and recycling services—at a lower cost. The City will pass the cost savings on to the citizens in the form of reductions to the monthly garbage collection bills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Layton City support recycling?
Yes. Layton City strongly supports recycling and currently offers a voluntary recycling program. However, the District attempted to impose a mandatory recycling program on Layton residents without approval from the Layton City Council. The District’s mandatory proposed program would have required all residents to pay for and maintain a recycling bin, regardless of whether they wish to participate. Layton City believes recycling should remain a personal choice. If the City leaves the District, recycling will still be available as an option for residents.
Will garbage bills be reduced?
Yes. The City anticipates residents will receive an immediate reduction to the base rate for curbside pickup of waste. The City anticipates nearly $1 million in annual savings. The total net savings (including transport costs) is estimated between $700,000 and $1 million per year. These savings will be passed directly to residents without any interruption in service.
Besides the financial benefits, are there other advantages to Layton City leaving the District?
Yes. Leaving the District allows Layton City to regain control over its waste management decisions rather than being subject to a Board made up primarily of non-Layton residents. The landfill’s lifespan is limited, and once it reaches capacity, the District will need to haul waste to other landfills for disposal services. If Layton remains in the District, critical decisions about waste hauling, costs, and future waste management strategies will be made by a Board that does not represent Layton residents and may not prioritize the City’s best interests. By leaving, Layton City ensures that these important decisions remain in the hands of local leaders who are directly accountable to the community residents.
What is Layton City’s plan for waste collection services?
Residents will not experience any disruption in waste collection services. If the City leaves the District, garbage pickup will continue as usual – using the same hauler, the same trash bins, and the same pickup schedule - at a reduced cost. Recycling services will also remain available as an option for residents.
When will these changes take effect?
It has been alleged that Layton City intends to leave the District on July 1, 2025. This is not true. There is no set date for implementation. Layton City will hold public meetings to gather resident input and continue to discuss the transition timeline with Davis County.
Why weren’t residents informed about this sooner?
The Layton City Council followed a structured approach, first engaging with the District and County Commissioners to communicate its intentions directly. The City wanted to ensure these organizations did not feel blindsided or that discussions were happening “behind their backs.” While resident engagement has always been a priority, the Council chose to first approach the District and County out of respect and to foster open dialogue.
Additionally, the City did not create or distribute the “information sheet” that has been circulating. It has always been the City’s plan to provide residents with clear, accurate information and seek public input. The Layton City Mayor and Council remain committed to transparency and will continue to keep residents informed throughout this process.
No. The landfill is not within Layton City limits and is not owned by the City. It is located on the northern border of Layton in unincorporated Davis County and is operated by the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District.
Who currently handles Layton City’s weekly trash collection?
Waste Management is the City’s current waste hauler and this will not change. Waste Management is a private company that contracts with Layton City (as well as other cities) to provide waste collection services. While its name may be similar to the District (Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District), Waste Management is not affiliated with the District in any way.
Where will Layton residents dispose of garbage and other materials that is not curbside pickup?
Layton City recognizes the importance of accessible waste disposal and is actively exploring multiple alternatives for residents. Options include continued access to the District landfill at an out-of-district rate, or a new designated disposal site. Additionally, Layton City may negotiate an agreement with the District for drop-off services at a contracted rate.
