⚠️ Why Prohibited Items Matter
Putting hazardous materials in a standard dumpster contaminates the load, can injure workers sorting at the facility, generate regulatory fines and create costly remediation situations for the rental company. These costs get passed back to you.
Hazardous Chemicals
- ✗Paint (all types — latex, oil-based, spray)
- ✗Paint thinner, mineral spirits, turpentine
- ✗Motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid
- ✗Antifreeze / coolant
- ✗Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers
- ✗Pool chemicals (chlorine, acid)
- ✗Solvents and degreasers
Batteries & Electronics
- ✗Car batteries (lead-acid)
- ✗Household batteries (alkaline, lithium — many brands recycle these separately)
- ✗Televisions and computer monitors (CRTs)
- ✗Computers, laptops, tablets
- ✗Printers, copiers, fax machines
- ✗Smartphones and tablets
- ✗Small electronics and LED screens
Medical Waste
- ✗Syringes and needles (biohazard)
- ✗Prescription medications
- ✗Medical equipment and supplies
- ✗PCR test materials
- ✗Blood-soaked materials (biohazard bags)
Asbestos
- ✗Any material containing asbestos
- ✗Vermiculite insulation
- ✗Floor tiles (pre-1980s vinyl)
- ✗Pipe insulation
- ✗Roofing materials from older homes
Tires
- ✗All passenger vehicle tires
- ✗Truck and tractor tires
- ✗Off-road / construction equipment tires
- ✗Motorcycle and bicycle tires
Other Prohibited
- ✗Explosives and ammunition
- ✗Fireworks and flares
- ✗Gasoline and propane tanks (empty or full)
- ✗Railroad ties (pressure-treated creosote)
- ✗Wet concrete / liquid waste (call first)
- ✗Radioactive materials
♻️ Where to Dispose of These Instead
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Paint: Home improvement stores (Lowes, Sherwin-Williams) offer free paint disposal
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Electronics: Best Buy, Staples, or local e-waste recycling events
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Batteries: Call2Recycle.org — free drop-off at hundreds of locations
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Tires: Auto shops, tire dealers — most accept for a small fee
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Medications: Local pharmacy take-back programs or DEA-authorized collection sites
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Motor oil: Auto parts stores (AutoZone, O'Reilly) accept free recycling
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Asbestos: Licensed hazardous waste facility — must be handled by professionals
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Propane tanks: Hardware stores, U-Haul, or hazardous waste drop-off