At the Davis Landfill (operated by Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District in Layton, Utah), all drivers of vehicles hauling waste or products like compost and wood chips must have their loads completely covered and securely fastened with a tarp or a solid barrier to prevent debris from escaping. Uncovered or unsecured loads are subject to a mandatory $10 fee in addition to standard disposal or product charges. This isn’t just a Davis Landfill policy; it’s state law.
Here’s how Utah Code Section 72-7-410, which went into effect on May 7, 2025, defines an unsecured vs. secured load:
Utah Code Section 72-7-410, subsection (1)(b) defines “securely covered” as meaning “that the content of a load is completely covered by a solid barrier which will prevent the load from blowing, spilling, or falling from the vehicle.”
This means that ALL loads must be covered and secured regardless of the material being brought or the size of the load.
Utah Code 72-7-410 (2) states that:
“A driver utilizing a landfill shall ensure that the vehicle’s load is securely covered from the destination of origin until the driver deposits the load at the landfill.”
This means that loads should be covered before driving to the landfill.
Make sure you have the proper heavy-duty straps, ropes, or chains on hand to tie down large or heavy items directly to your vehicle. Also, ensure that you have a solid cover (tarp or netting with holes no larger than 1/4 inch) to completely cover the load to secure small items or loose debris.
Arrange the items you are hauling so that they will be easy to secure with your tie-downs and so that small and loose items can be completely covered, and the covering can be securely fastened so it doesn’t come loose during transport.
Before you hit the road, walk around your vehicle and trailer (if applicable) and double-check the tie-downs and covering. Did junior add something small to the load after it was tarped? Did any tie-downs come loose? A good pre-check adds confidence and helps keep everyone safe from falling debris.
Please help keep our community safe and beautiful!
Q: Does my trailer load need a tarp on it before I drive to the Davis Landfill?
A: Yes, Utah law requires that your load is securely covered, not just tied down. This means from the minute you leave your point of origin, until you drop it off, it needs to be covered with either a tarp or a solid barrier. If the load isn’t covered before you’re on the road, you’re subject to the $10 fee.
Q: What counts as a “securely covered” load under Utah law?
A: Utah Code 72-7-410 states that a “securely covered” load means the contents are completely covered by a solid barrier that prevents anything from spilling, falling off or blowing.
Q: Does this rule apply to all loads, or only certain types of materials?
A: This applies to every vehicle hauling materials to the Davis Landfill, including compost and wood chips. There is no exception for “small loads”.
Q: Why is the fine mandatory?
A: The law makes it the responsibility of the landfill to collect the fine for uncovered and unsecured loads:
Utah Code 72-7-410 (3)(a) “A landfill shall collect a $10 minimum fine for a vehicle in violation of Subsection (2).”
Effective date: May 7, 2025 (minimum fine enforcement began July 1, 2026). A portion of the uncovered load fees collected are distributed to the state for litter clean-up programs.
OUR LOCATION
