Residents have options to apply for transfer station user stickers
By Becky Long
Publisher
Announcement of the county’s landfill permit system was made in July , but it appears a number of residents may have been caught off guard by the Jan. 1 start date.
The permits stem from a $100 solid waste fee that was added to 2025 ad valorem property tax bills.
Since the middle of December 2025, to date, approximately 1,000 solid waste permits have been issued at the Clay County Transfer Station, according to County Manager Debbie Mauney.
The post holiday Saturday produced long lines at the landfill, a mixture of a traditional busy time and residents applying for household garbage permits.
“In regard to the wait, there were a number of things that led to the long lines at the transfer station not just the permit process,” Mauney said. “Typically, after the holidays, the Transfer Station has long lines due to more trash being generated and a lot more people in the county visiting the area. Additionally, the two-day holiday closure added to this. “
Property owners can still apply at the landfill or they may opt to apply for the permit sticker online at the county’s web site: clayconc.com and click on Transfer Station permit application. The site also details the policy and provides the initial ordinance passed in July.
“We recommend the online process as it saves the customer time,” Mauney said. “The permit can be picked up at the Transfer Station, if all the fees and taxes are paid.”
The permit sticker is free for one per household. Additional permits for the same property are $20 each.
Permits will allow residents to dispose of five large bags of 30 to 40 gallon bags or 10 small bags, 10 to 29 gallons, at no cost.
Other garbage that includes furniture, electronics, construction or if the customer goes over the weekly bag limit, must be weighed and paid by the pound.
Mauney pointed out that the county is working towards a new transfer station.
“As part of this process, we have been in conversations with NC DOT about assisting with the design phase for the new transfer facility to ensure the best possible outcomes for the new facilities access points,” she said.
“The Board of Commissioners commend Kevin Shaheen and his employees for the work they do,” Mauney added.