Know before you throw

WHAT CAN & CAN'T GO IN A DUMPSTER

Massachusetts DEP regulations prohibit certain materials from dumpsters. Here's what you can and can't toss.

Accepted Materials

Household furniture & junk
Construction debris (drywall, lumber, framing)
Roofing shingles
Flooring (tile, hardwood, carpet)
Cabinets & countertops
Yard waste (branches, leaves, brush)
Concrete & masonry (small amounts)
Metal & scrap
Clothing & textiles
Mattresses & box springs
Appliances WITHOUT freon
General renovation debris

Prohibited Materials

Hazardous chemicals & solvents

Toxic — requires licensed hazmat disposal

Paint & stains (liquid)

Can leak and contaminate — dry paint cans are OK

Motor oil & automotive fluids

Environmental hazard — recycle at auto parts stores

Electronics (TVs, computers, monitors)

MA ban — bring to town recycling center

Appliances with freon (fridges, AC units)

Refrigerants must be professionally recovered

Batteries (all types)

Contains hazardous materials — recycle separately

Tires

Banned from landfills — tire shops accept old tires

Medical/biohazard waste

Requires special licensed disposal

Asbestos

Requires licensed abatement and disposal

Propane tanks & pressurized containers

Explosion hazard — return to supplier

Not Sure About an Item?

When in doubt, give us a call at (978) 375-2272. We've seen it all and can quickly tell you whether an item is OK for the dumpster or if it needs special handling.

Pro tip: Most towns in our service area operate recycling centers and transfer stations where you can drop off prohibited items. We can point you to the right facility for your town.

READY TO RENT A DUMPSTER?

Now that you know what goes in, let's get you a dumpster. Roll off dumpster rental from $350 with same-day delivery across Middlesex County.