Westfield Offers Free Conservation Center Access for Blizzard Debris Cleanup

The town is waiving permit and fee requirements for organic debris disposal this weekend.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 4:03pm

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Following a recent blizzard, the town of Westfield, New Jersey is offering residents free access to the local conservation center to dispose of organic debris on Friday and Saturday. Proof of residency will be required, and landscapers are not permitted to use the service during these special hours.

Why it matters

The conservation center's normal operating hours and permit requirements have been temporarily lifted to help residents quickly and easily clear away storm-related organic waste, which is not normally allowed to be placed curbside outside of leaf season.

The details

Westfield Mayor Jeremy Berman stated that the town is offering this free access to the conservation center in response to the "volume of branches and other debris from the storm." Residents will need to show proof of residency to use the service, and landscapers are not permitted to deposit materials during these special hours.

  • The conservation center will offer free access on Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14, 2026.
  • The conservation center's normal operating hours of Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. will resume on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

The players

Westfield

The town of Westfield, New Jersey, which is offering free access to its conservation center for organic debris disposal following a recent blizzard.

Jeremy Berman

The mayor of Westfield, New Jersey, who stated that the town is offering this free access in response to the volume of storm-related debris.

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What they’re saying

“Following the volume of branches and other debris from the storm, it's a good time to remind everyone that with the exception of leaf season, organic debris is not allowed to be placed curbside.”

— Jeremy Berman, Mayor

What’s next

The conservation center's normal operating hours and permit requirements will resume on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

The takeaway

Westfield's temporary waiver of conservation center fees and permit requirements demonstrates the town's commitment to helping residents quickly and easily dispose of organic debris following a major storm, while also highlighting the importance of proper organic waste management outside of designated collection periods.