Little Compton Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

Little Compton’s Department of Public Works: Green Waste Collection Schedules and Procedures

Green waste disposal in Little Compton is managed through the Department of Public Works, which oversees weekly curbside collection from April through November. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags or rigid containers (32-gallon maximum) for leaves, grass clippings, and brush under 4 feet in length. Plastic bags and branches over 4 inches in diameter are not accepted. Collection occurs every Thursday, and materials should be placed curbside by 7:00 AM. For larger volumes or off-schedule disposal, residents may utilize the town’s designated drop-off site during posted hours. Compliance with these procedures ensures efficient collection and prevents contamination of municipal compost streams. For questions regarding collection schedules, container requirements, or drop-off locations:

Little Compton RI Department of Public Works
40 Commons, Little Compton, RI 02837
Phone: (401) 635-1041
Official Website: Little Compton RI Department of Public Works

Soil Series and Drainage Considerations for Green Waste in Little Compton

Little Compton’s landscape is characterized by Inceptisols and Udults, with prevalent Bridgehampton silt loam and Newport loam soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are moderately acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and often poorly drained, especially in low-lying or coastal areas. When managing green waste, it is essential to avoid stockpiling debris on saturated soils, as this can lead to compaction and runoff into sensitive wetlands. Best practices include:

• Placing green waste on paved or gravel surfaces
• Maintaining a 25-foot buffer from wetlands and water bodies
• Scheduling removal before forecasted heavy rainfall (National Weather Service)
• Incorporating composted material at a rate of 2-3 inches tilled to 6-inch depth for soil amendment These measures help protect local water quality and maintain soil health throughout the town.

Environmental Compliance: Wetland Buffers and Stormwater Protections in Little Compton

Properties in Little Compton must comply with both local and state environmental regulations when disposing of green waste. The Rhode Island Environmental Rights Act and the town’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act prohibit dumping yard debris in storm drains, wetlands, or within 25 feet of protected areas. Residents are required to:

• Maintain a 25-foot no-disturbance buffer from all wetlands
• Prevent clippings and leaves from entering stormwater inlets
• Use only approved composting and disposal methods Violations may result in fines or remediation orders. For guidance on buffer zones, stormwater compliance, or reporting violations:

Little Compton RI Planning & Zoning Department
40 Commons, Little Compton, RI 02837
Phone: (401) 635-8384
Official Website: Little Compton RI Planning & Zoning Department

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908
Phone: (401) 222-4700
Official Website: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

Equipment Operation Hours and Safety Standards for Green Waste Handling in Little Compton

The Town of Little Compton enforces specific hours for the operation of power equipment used in green waste management to minimize noise and ensure public safety. According to municipal ordinance (Little Compton RI Town Ordinances), permitted hours are:

• Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Sunday and holidays: Prohibited Operators must use commercial-grade equipment with functioning mufflers and maintain noise levels below 85 decibels at property lines. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, including:
• ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses
• Hearing protection for noise above 85 dB
• Steel-toed boots and cut-resistant gloves For questions on equipment standards or ordinance enforcement:

Little Compton RI Police Department
60 Simmons Road, Little Compton, RI 02837
Phone: (401) 635-2311
Official Website: Little Compton RI Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Little Compton, RI?

• Adamsville: Features a mix of historic properties and newer homes, with moderately drained Bridgehampton silt loam soils and proximity to the West Branch of the Westport River, requiring careful buffer management.
• Sakonnet Point: Coastal exposure and sandy Newport loam soils create unique drainage challenges; properties often border conservation lands and require strict compliance with wetland buffer regulations.
• The Commons: Central village area with denser development, mature trees, and compacted soils; narrow streets may limit equipment access for green waste collection.
• Warren’s Point: Large lots and mature landscaping, with high water tables and poorly drained soils; frequent need for seasonal debris removal and adherence to stormwater controls.
• South Shore Beach Area: Proximity to salt marshes and protected dunes necessitates strict adherence to 25-foot wetland buffers and use of biodegradable containers for all green waste.
• Old Main Road Corridor: Mix of agricultural and residential parcels, with variable soil drainage and frequent roadside brush accumulation; requires coordination for large debris pickups.
• Long Highway: Rural character with wooded lots and heavy leaf fall; access limitations and slope conditions may affect collection schedules and require specialized handling.