Why It’s Important to Know What Can (and Can’t) Go in a Dumpster

Renting a dumpster makes junk removal and cleanouts fast and easy. But not everything can be tossed in. Certain items are restricted due to safety, environmental, or local waste regulations — and violating these rules could lead to additional fees or fines.

Whether you’re doing a renovation in Jacksonville, FL or just clearing out the garage, this guide will help you dispose of waste responsibly and avoid problems with your dumpster rental.

What Can You Put in a Dumpster?

Let’s start with the basics. Most general-use dumpsters (like 10-yard, 15-yard, and 20-yard dumpsters) can accept the following:

Household Junk

  • Furniture (chairs, tables, couches)
  • Mattresses (check with provider for surcharge)
  • Boxes, packaging, and non-recyclable paper
  • Clothing, toys, books

Remodeling Debris

  • Drywall and plaster
  • Flooring (wood, tile, vinyl)
  • Cabinets and countertops
  • Sinks, toilets, and tubs

Yard Waste

  • Tree branches and limbs
  • Grass clippings and leaves
  • Dirt and mulch (limited quantity, due to weight)
  • Shrubs and landscaping debris

Construction Materials

  • Wood and lumber
  • Non-asbestos insulation
  • Metal scraps
  • Roofing shingles

📌 Tip: If you’re working on a construction site, check out our Post-Construction Cleanup Checklist for a detailed cleanup game plan.

What Can’t You Put in a Dumpster?

Local waste laws and landfill rules in Jacksonville, FL prohibit certain items due to environmental hazards or safety risks.

Prohibited Items Include:

  • Paints, stains, and lacquers (especially those with lead or solvents)
  • Oils and automotive fluids (transmission fluid, antifreeze, motor oil)
  • Batteries (car batteries and lithium-ion batteries are a fire risk)
  • Asbestos materials (extremely dangerous and highly regulated)
  • Pesticides and herbicides
  • Tires (most landfills will not accept them)
  • Refrigerators and freezers (due to freon)
  • Propane tanks and pressurized containers
  • Electronics (TVs, computers, monitors – check for e-waste recycling options)
  • Hazardous waste of any kind

If you’re unsure whether something is allowed, the safest option is to contact your provider directly. You can reach us anytime via the Contact page.

What About “Gray Area” Items?

Some items aren’t strictly banned but come with restrictions:

  • Mattresses: Allowed, but may incur an extra fee due to disposal complexity.
  • Appliances: Small ones like microwaves are fine; large appliances often need freon removal certification.
  • Dirt, concrete, and bricks: Accepted in limited quantities, due to dumpster weight limits.
  • Heavy roofing debris: Can quickly max out your container’s weight cap. Choose a 20-yard dumpster and ask about tonnage limits.

Know Your Dumpster’s Weight Limit

Exceeding your dumpster’s weight capacity can result in overage charges. Here’s a quick guide:

  • 10-yard dumpster: Good for light household cleanouts and yard debris
  • 15-yard dumpster: Works well for small renovations and heavier mixed loads
  • 20-yard dumpster: Best for roofing, flooring, and larger cleanups

Full specs and booking options are on our Shop page.

Environmentally Responsible Alternatives

For items you can’t toss in a dumpster, consider eco-friendly alternatives:

  • E-waste recycling: Jacksonville has local events and drop-off centers
  • Household hazardous waste disposal: Check the City of Jacksonville’s HHW page for scheduled events
  • Tire disposal: Auto shops and tire retailers often accept old tires
  • Donation centers: If it’s still usable, donate furniture, clothing, and electronics

Doing your part helps keep landfills safer and reduces community pollution.

Final Word

Knowing what can and can’t go into your dumpster helps you stay compliant, avoid extra charges, and protect the environment. Always double-check when you’re unsure — and when in doubt, contact 904 Dumpster for help.