23/10/2025 
Cost Compass
Green waste disposal up to 1 m³ is free in most cities
The cost of disposal depends on the volume and the drop-off location.
In most cities, the disposal of up to 1 m³ of green waste is free of charge.
Every garden produces green waste — for example, when mowing the lawn or trimming hedges, shrubs, and trees. Some of this waste can be reused in your own garden, but any excess must be properly disposed of.
Collection points include recycling centers, green waste containers, or recycling depots.
Costs may arise for container rental, collection, and disposal.
Depending on the municipality and location, additional fees may also apply for placement permits and no-parking signs.
In most cities, the disposal of up to 1 m³ of green waste is free of charge.
What Additional Costs Can Arise?
The disposal costs for green waste usually include transport with a suitable vehicle, loading the material, and disposal.
If you live in inner-city areas or need to temporarily place the container on public property until pickup, additional costs may apply, such as:
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Placement permit on public space for 7 days: €56
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Keeping parking spaces clear with no-parking signs for 10 days: €160
If such additional measures are necessary, remember to apply for the respective permits in advance from your local municipality.
How Much Does a Container Cost?
If you need to dispose of larger amounts of green waste, it’s advisable to rent a container. The following prices refer to a rental period of 7 days:
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A 3 m³ container for green waste costs between €100 and €230.
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A 10 m³ container costs between €200 and €300, depending on the provider and location.
How Much Does Disposal at a Recycling Center Cost?
The cost of disposing of green waste varies depending on the disposal site and the amount.
In some cities, such as Bonn or Hamburg, disposal up to a certain quantity is free of charge once per year.
The following table shows example prices and volumes for various recycling centers in major German cities:
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