Local Transfer Stations & Recycling Guide

Waste Disposal in Lewiston, Atlanta & Johannesburg | Northern Michigan

Living in Northern Michigan comes with beautiful forests, pristine lakes, and wide-open spaces. Keeping it that way starts with responsible waste disposal.

Whether you're a full-time resident, a seasonal property owner, or managing a renovation project at your Up North cabin, here's a clear guide to local transfer stations and landfill services in Lewiston, Atlanta, and Johannesburg.

MOA Landfill – Atlanta, MI

The Montmorency-Oscoda-Alpena (MOA) Landfill serves Montmorency, Oscoda, and Alpena Counties and operates as a regional landfill facility. This location is typically used for larger loads, construction debris, and specialty disposal needs.

Winter Hours

Day Hours
Mon – Fri   8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sat  Closed
Sun  Closed

If you're planning a significant clean-out or project, it's recommended to contact the landfill directly for current guidelines and accepted materials.

Albert Township Transfer Site – Lewiston, MI

Convenient for Lewiston and Albert Township residents, this is a bag-based transfer site, meaning disposal is paid per bag or via punch card. The site is ideal for routine household disposal.

Address: 3541 Co Rd 491, Lewiston, MI

Operating Hours

Day Hours
Mon  7:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Tues  Closed
Wed  1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Thurs  Closed
Fri  7:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Sat – Sun    9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Closed on: Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year's Day

Fees

  • 0–30 Gallon Bags: $1.00
  • 31–60 Gallon Bags: $2.00
  • $10 Punch Card available
  • No bags over 60 gallons permitted

Because fees are structured per bag, it's helpful to plan accordingly before arrival.

Charlton Township Transfer Station & Recycling Center – Johannesburg, MI

Located on Rock Road off M-32, west of Johannesburg, this location operates differently from many township bag-based sites — and the distinction is important.

For Charlton and Otsego County Residents

The Transfer Station is operated by Charlton Township and serves residents of Charlton, Chester, and Dover Townships. This facility handles household waste disposal and operates independently from the county recycling program.

 

Recycling bins located at the same site are part of the Otsego County Recycling Program, which is managed by Otsego County. While both services share a location, the transfer station and the recycling program are overseen by different entities. The Otsego County Recycling Program is available 24/7. 

Operating Hours

Day Hours
Wed   12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Sat  8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sun   12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Fees for Certain Bagged Items

  • Standard Bags: $1.00
  • Contractor Bags: $4.00
  • $20 Punch Card (23 punches)

Because the transfer station and recycling center operate under township guidelines and tax support, it's recommended to confirm specific disposal rules prior to your visit.

GFL Environmental – Curbside Pickup & Waste Services

For residents who prefer the convenience of scheduled curbside pickup rather than making trips to a transfer site, GFL Environmental is a full-service waste management provider serving Northern Michigan.

GFL offers a range of services for both homeowners and businesses, making them a practical option for year-round residents, seasonal property owners, and anyone managing a larger cleanout or renovation project.

Services Available

Residential

  • Curbside waste collection
  • Recycling pickup
  • Bulk & large item collection
  • Roll-off bin rentals

Commercial

  • Dumpster rental & service
  • Commercial recycling
  • Roll-off containers
  • Compactor services

GFL is a good complement to local transfer sites — particularly for those who need regular scheduled service or are handling a larger project that goes beyond what a bag-based drop-off site can accommodate. Visit their website to find local service options, set up an account, or pay a bill.

Both the Albert Township transfer site in Lewiston and the Charlton Township transfer station near Johannesburg operate on a bag-based system for household waste disposal. While accepted materials and additional services may vary by location, both facilities require payment based on the number of bags dropped off. Reviewing your township's guidelines ahead of time can help ensure you bring the appropriate materials and payment method for a smooth drop-off experience.

Understanding the Difference: Transfer Site vs. Transfer Station

In Northern Michigan, these terms are often used interchangeably — but they are not the same. Here's a quick breakdown:

Transfer Sites (Bag-Based)

  • Charge per bag
  • Operate under township guidelines
  • Ideal for routine household waste
  • Example: Albert Township in Lewiston

Transfer Stations (Tax-Supported)

  • Funded through local taxes
  • Free for eligible residents
  • Often include recycling services

Knowing which system applies to your township helps avoid confusion and ensures a smooth drop-off experience anywhere Up North.

Why This Matters for Northern Michigan Property Owners

Understanding local waste disposal options is part of responsible property ownership in Lewiston, Atlanta, and Johannesburg. Whether you're managing a year-round household or an Up North retreat, this information applies to you.

  • Closing up a seasonal cabin after summer or fall
  • Cleaning out after a renovation or remodel
  • Managing a year-round household in Northern Michigan
  • Preparing a property for sale

Clean properties protect property values, preserve our natural environment, and maintain the quality of life that makes Northern Michigan special. Proper disposal is one of the simplest ways to be a good steward of this Up North community.

If you ever have questions about township services, local resources, or what to expect as a homeowner in this area, our team at Huston Real Estate is always happy to point you in the right direction.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're a full-time resident or a seasonal visitor, knowing where — and how — to properly dispose of waste in Lewiston, Atlanta, Johannesburg, and throughout the Up North region makes life simpler and keeps Northern Michigan beautiful for generations to come.

From the MOA Landfill in Atlanta to the bag-based site in Lewiston and the tax-supported recycling center near Johannesburg, each location serves a slightly different need. A quick check of hours and fees before your visit goes a long way.

Have questions about life as a property owner in Northern Michigan? Huston Real Estate is here to help — not just with buying and selling, but with navigating everything that comes with Up North living.

🏡 Ready to find your perfect Up North property in Lewiston, Atlanta, Johannesburg, or anywhere in Northern Michigan?

Schedule your private showing today — call 989.786.2240 or visit NorthernCabins.com

Huston Real Estate—Your Up North Experts