Charleston County Offers Free Pumpkin Composting

Charleston County Environmental Management is encouraging residents to give their pumpkins a new purpose this fall through a free composting program at the Bees Ferry Landfill, located at 1344 Bees Ferry Road.

From Sunday, Nov. 1 through Dec. 4, 2026, designated pumpkin collection bins will be available next to the existing food scrap collection carts, giving residents a convenient way to compost their pumpkins rather than throw them in the trash.

Before dropping off pumpkins, residents should remove any non-compostable materials. Paint, glue, stickers, and glitter should be removed using a vegetable peeler, and any remaining candle wax should be scraped out.

“Composting gives pumpkins a second life by turning them into nutrient-rich material that helps new plants and vegetables grow,” said Environmental Management Program Manager Christina Moskos. “Instead of sending pumpkins to the landfill, residents can help return valuable organic material to the soil and make a positive impact on our environment.”