Throwing the wrong items in your dumpster can result in hefty fines, environmental damage, and rejection of your entire load. This guide covers everything you can't put in a dumpster and how to dispose of these items properly.

⚠️ Important Warning

Prohibited items found in your dumpster can result in:

Fines of $100-$500 per item
Rejection of entire load at landfill
Criminal charges for hazardous materials
Additional transportation and disposal fees

Universal Prohibited Items (Never Allowed)

1. Hazardous Chemicals

These pose serious environmental and health risks:

Paint (wet/oil-based)
Motor oil and automotive fluids
Pesticides and herbicides
Pool chemicals
Cleaning solvents
Antifreeze

Disposal alternative: Local household hazardous waste collection days or permanent drop-off facilities.

2. Electronics (E-Waste)

Contains toxic materials like lead and mercury:

Televisions and monitors
Computers and laptops
Printers and scanners
Cell phones
Microwaves

Disposal alternative: Best Buy, Staples, or local e-waste recycling centers accept these free.

3. Appliances with Freon

Freon must be professionally removed:

Refrigerators
Freezers
Air conditioners
Dehumidifiers
Water coolers

Disposal alternative: Schedule appliance pickup with your utility company (often free) or scrap metal recyclers.

4. Tires

Banned from landfills in most states:

Car tires
Truck tires
Motorcycle tires
Tractor tires

Disposal alternative: Tire retailers often accept old tires for $2-5 each. Auto shops may take them free with new tire purchase.

5. Batteries

Contains corrosive and toxic materials:

Car batteries
Lithium-ion batteries
Rechargeable batteries
Laptop batteries

Disposal alternative: Auto parts stores (for car batteries), Home Depot, Lowes, or battery recycling centers.

6. Medical Waste

Biohazard materials require special handling:

Needles and syringes
Medications
Blood-contaminated items
Medical sharps

Disposal alternative: Pharmacy take-back programs, hospital disposal programs, or mail-back services.

7. Asbestos

Extremely hazardous material requiring professional removal:

Old insulation
Ceiling tiles (pre-1980)
Vinyl flooring (pre-1980)
Pipe insulation

Disposal alternative: Licensed asbestos removal contractors only. Never handle yourself.

8. Propane Tanks

Explosion risk even when empty:

Grill tanks
Camping cylinders
Forklift tanks
RV tanks

Disposal alternative: Propane suppliers, hardware stores, or hazardous waste facilities.

Sometimes Prohibited (Check First)

These items may be allowed with special arrangements or additional fees:

⚠️
Mattresses and Box Springs: Some companies accept for $25-50 extra fee
⚠️
Railroad Ties: Treated wood requires special disposal
⚠️
Dirt and Concrete: Often requires separate "clean fill" dumpster
⚠️
Tree Stumps: May be prohibited or require extra fees
⚠️
Hot Water Heaters: Allowed if drained completely

What CAN Go in a Dumpster?

Most non-hazardous solid waste is acceptable:

✓ Household junk and furniture
✓ Construction debris (wood, drywall)
✓ Yard waste and branches
✓ Carpet and flooring
✓ Clothing and textiles

✓ Non-electronic appliances
✓ Roofing shingles
✓ Siding and windows
✓ Cardboard and paper
✓ Plastic and metal (non-hazardous)

Need Help Choosing the Right Dumpster?

Use our calculator to find the perfect size and connect with providers who can guide you on local restrictions.

Calculate Dumpster Size →

How to Avoid Prohibited Item Fees

Sort before you toss: Separate prohibited items before loading the dumpster.
Ask your provider: Each company may have slightly different restrictions.
Schedule separate pickups: Many items like appliances have free pickup options.
Host a hazardous waste day: Coordinate with neighbors for group disposal.
Donate or sell: Working appliances and electronics can be donated.
When in doubt, ask: Call before putting questionable items in the dumpster.

State-Specific Restrictions

Some states have additional restrictions. Common examples:

California: Universal waste (batteries, mercury thermostats) strictly prohibited
Massachusetts: CRTs and TVs banned from all disposal
Pennsylvania: Leaf waste banned during certain months
New York: Electronic waste banned statewide

Always check your local and state regulations as they change frequently.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what can't go in your dumpster saves money and protects the environment. When planning your project, budget time to properly dispose of prohibited items through appropriate channels. Most communities offer free or low-cost disposal options for hazardous materials—you just need to plan ahead.