Josephine County residents will have an opportunity to clean up their homes and properties at no cost later this month as Southern Oregon Sanitation Inc. hosts its annual Free Trash Day event in recognition of Earth Day. Scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, the event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will be held at two convenient locations serving both Grants Pass and the Illinois Valley.
The event will take place at the Redwood Avenue Transfer Station and Recycle Center, located at 1381 Redwood Avenue in Grants Pass, as well as the Kerby Transfer Station and Recycle Center at 905 Kerby Mainline Road in Kerby. By offering two sites, organizers aim to improve accessibility for residents across the county while encouraging broader participation in spring cleanup efforts.
Southern Oregon Sanitation officials say the event is designed to help residents responsibly dispose of household waste while also reducing illegal dumping and supporting overall community cleanliness. As part of the program, households are allowed to bring in up to one cubic yard of loose household trash at no charge. This allowance is intended to provide meaningful relief for residents who may have accumulated waste but face barriers in disposing of it through regular services.
For those who may not have traditional household trash to discard, the event also includes an option to drop off a single qualifying item at no cost. Accepted items under this portion of the program include yard debris, limited to one cubic yard, one large household appliance, or one piece of furniture. Organizers note that appliances must have any Freon properly removed in advance to qualify for discounted or free disposal.
Event organizers emphasize that materials must meet standard disposal guidelines. Yard debris that is contaminated with non-organic materials may be subject to regular disposal fees, reinforcing the importance of proper sorting before arrival.
The effort is part of a broader mission by Southern Oregon Sanitation to promote sustainable waste practices throughout the year. The company continues to offer recycling services for a wide range of materials, including items that are not typically accepted in standard curbside collection programs. Residents are encouraged to learn more about these ongoing services by visiting the company’s website.
Community leaders and sanitation officials view the Free Trash Day event as more than just a disposal opportunity. It also serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility residents have in maintaining the cleanliness and environmental health of Josephine County. By aligning the event with Earth Day, organizers hope to inspire greater awareness about waste management and encourage long-term habits that benefit both neighborhoods and natural spaces.
With rising disposal costs and increased awareness of environmental impact, events like this continue to play an important role in supporting local residents. The combination of accessibility, cost savings, and environmental stewardship makes the annual Free Trash Day a practical and meaningful opportunity for households across the region.
Residents planning to participate are encouraged to arrive early and ensure materials are properly prepared to help the event run smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.