Sept. 9, 5:50 p.m., UPDATE, County of Kauaʻi, Solid Waste Division

Published on September 09, 2026

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LĪHUʻE – The County of Kauaʻi Solid Waste Division is waiving tipping fees for storm-generated debris at the Kekaha Landfill and Refuse Transfer Stations as residents and businesses clean up from Hurricane Lowell.
"Our families are hauling out water-damaged furniture, spoiled food, and whole trees from their yards, and the last thing we want is a fee standing between them and getting their homes back in order," said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. "Waiving these fees is one way we can lighten the load. Please be patient with our crews at the landfill and the transfer stations. They are working long hours to keep these facilities open for you.”
There is no charge for storm-generated debris. This waiver removes disposal charges for commercial loads of storm debris.
Facility status
  • The Kekaha Landfill and the Hanapēpē refuse transfer station are open and accepting customers.
  • The Hanalei, Līhu‘e, and Kapaʻa refuse transfer stations are closed due to access issues. The facilities will be open as soon as it is possible to haul trailers to the landfill.
  • Green waste is being accepted at Līhuʻe and Kapaʻa until capacity is reached. The Division is working to secure additional green waste hauling to keep up with the flow of material. Please bring green waste separated and free of trash, dirt, and construction debris.
  • Refuse collection remains suspended due to downed and low-hanging wires across the island. If collection can be provided later this week, it will be. Please leave your carts out and accessible.
  • The County's recycling contractor remains without power and cannot service Kauaʻi Recycles bins or process HI-5 materials. Service will resume once power is restored.
Landfill hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for residential loads and 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for commercial loads. The landfill is closed for lunch from noon to 12:30 p.m.
Please help us manage the post-storm waste. Separate your waste into green waste, metals, putrescible (food and other materials that can spoil), and dry waste. Please prioritize disposal of putrescible waste first to help reduce odors, pests, and other impacts while collection services are disrupted. Mixed waste should be kept free of rainwater and any other liquids such as cooking oil, etc.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work to safely restore services following Hurricane Lowell. We will continue to provide updates as services evolve.

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