Items You Can Toss in a Dumpster
You have trash to get rid of, and we have the dumpster to do it. We accept a wide variety of items in our containers. However, what can go in a roll off dumpster and what’s allowed in a commercial dumpster may not be the same. Additionally, there will be some items that are only accepted in certain areas.
To see what is allowed in a dumpster, select the container type below or give our team a call at 855-378-9829.
What Can Go in a Roll Off Dumpster?
You can throw most types of household junk, construction and remodeling debris in a roll off dumpster. However, in some areas, not all items are allowed in the same container because they are sent to separate landfills, transfer stations or recycling facilities. This table shows you what materials are generally accepted and what type of roll off you should rent to toss them.
| Accepted Debris | Dumpster Type | Common Materials |
|---|---|---|
| Household Junk | Residential Dumpster | Boxes of junk, tables, chairs, bookshelves, desks, flooring materials, pots and pans and toys. |
| Remodeling Debris | Construction Dumpster | Lumber, drywall, plaster, siding, scrap metal, countertops, cabinets, vanities. |
| Shingles | Roofing Dumpster | Asphalt, slate and metal shingles, flashing, underlayment, gutters. |
Accepted Items That Vary by Location
While the table above shows debris that is widely accepted, some materials are wild cards. Cities and states often have their own landfill regulations. For example, California doesn’t allow electronics in landfills. As a result, there are some materials that can be thrown away in our roll off dumpsters in specific locations only. To find out if we accept these materials near you, give our team a call.
Yard Waste
Yard waste is generally accepted. However, some areas do not allow organic materials in landfills. Additionally, stumps must often be a maximum of a 3-foot diameter, and tree branches should be cut no longer than a foot long. See if we offer a yard waste dumpster in your city to get rid of your organic materials.
Dirt
Dirt often requires its own dumpster because it can be reused. As a result, we may not have a dirt dumpster available in every city. If landfills won’t accept your dirt, consider trying to sell it.
Appliances
Most appliances are allowed in a roll off dumpster, but landfills may have restrictions on the number of white goods permitted. Additionally, any appliance that requires Freon, such as a refrigerator or air conditioner, will require a technician to remove the Freon and dispose of it before the appliance can be safely accepted.
Electronics
Some states have banned e-waste from landfills. Even if you’re in an area where electronics are accepted, there may be some restrictions to the number or type of devices accepted. For example, you may be able to toss two electronic devices, but tube TVs are completely banned.
Upholstered Furniture
Furniture and mattresses are accepted widely throughout the country. However, many areas require that you wrap upholstered furniture in plastic. Some locations also charge fees for breaking down the framework.
Heavy Debris
The disposal rules for heavy debris, such as concrete, brick, block and asphalt, vary the most. Some markets will accept only certain types of heavy debris in separate containers, while some will accept it all in a mixed heavy debris dumpster. Our team will review these rules with you so you know what to expect in your area.
What Is Allowed in a Commercial Dumpster?
You can put common trash like food waste, office supplies and shipping materials in your commercial dumpster. Additionally, we offer single-stream and cardboard-only recycling containers to toss your everyday recyclables. This table shows what’s allowed in your bin and any notes you should be aware of.
| Accepted Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| General Trash | All types of everyday waste are accepted in our front load dumpsters. |
| Recyclable Materials | Get a single-stream recycling dumpster to toss plastic, glass, paper, cardboard and aluminum or ask about a cardboard-only container to manage large shipments. |
| Food Waste | Make sure food waste is bagged to discourage pests. We also have drain plugs in most areas to accommodate wet waste. |
| Packaging Materials | Break all the packaging down prior to tossing to save space in your bin. |
| Electronics | Local restrictions may limit or prevent e-waste from landfills. Check with your account manager. |
| Broken Dishware | Bag any dishes before tossing to help protect anyone handling your trash. |
Accepted Items FAQs
Why do accepted items change by roll off dumpster type?
Certain waste types need special disposal, requiring them to go to different landfills, recycling centers or transfer stations. As a result, they cannot be mixed with other types of debris.
Will I be charged for throwing out a restricted item?
Yes. If the driver notices restricted items in your dumpster when we arrive for pickup, we may not collect the container until the materials are removed, resulting in a trip fee. If the landfill discovers prohibited items, you may be billed separately for disposal fees.
Why are some debris types allowed in roll off dumpsters, but not commercial containers?
Commercial dumpsters have lower weight limits, so items like construction debris and appliances aren't permitted. If you need to toss heavy waste, consider renting a roll off dumpster instead.
If I need to toss more than one type of debris, should I rent multiple containers?
Sometimes. If the debris needs to be taken to different locations for disposal, multiple containers are required. If you give our team a call, we’ll talk through your cleanup with you and let you know the best solution for your disposal needs.
More Dumpster Resources
Use this information to guide your dumpster rental experience, from tips for roll off and commercial containers to helpful disposal options for bulky waste.
Roll Off Dumpster Tips:
Commercial Resources:
Disposal Guides: