Renting a roll-off dumpster is a hassle-free method of removing debris during a home renovation, clean-out, and even landscaping project. However, you cannot just throw anything into the dumpster, and knowing the rules can save you time, money, and aggravation. 

In this guide, we will provide you with a few lists to highlight what you can toss in these dumpsters, what you will need to avoid, and how to keep yourself and your project from going off the rails.

What You Can Throw in a Roll-Off Dumpster

Roll-off dumpsters designated for scrap metal are intended strictly for metal materials and items containing mostly metal. Here are some commonly accepted materials that can go in a scrap metal roll-off dumpster:

  • Metal Household Items — Metal furniture, bed frames, shelving, and non-hazardous metal clutter.
  • Metal Construction Debris — Steel studs, rebar, metal pipes, wiring (non-insulated preferred), and metal siding.
  • Metal Yard Waste — Fencing, metal stakes, lawn furniture, and tools made primarily of metal.
  • Metal Appliances (Prepared) — Washers, dryers, stoves, and other large appliances with all non-metal parts and refrigerants (like Freon) safely removed.

What You Shouldn’t Throw in a Roll-Off Dumpster

Items that are generally viewed as unsafe, environmentally harmful, or restricted by law should be kept from these dumpsters. A few of these examples include: 

  • Hazardous Liquids such as Paint, solvents, fuels, pesticides, and cleaning chemicals.
  • Electronics like TVs, computers, and monitors with mercury or heavy metals.
  • Batteries, including Car, lithium-ion, or alkaline, all pose safety risks.
  • Tires and treated lumber. These are difficult to process and harmful to landfills.
  • Medical Waste, such as needles, sharps, and biohazardous materials.
  • Asbestos and Fluorescent Bulbs are highly regulated due to health hazards.

Occasionally Accepted Items 

Under some circumstances or when approved by law, you can use roll-off dumpsters for these items: 

  • Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses are sometimes accepted, but might come with an additional fee. 
  • Dirt and Heavy Fill, but there may be weight limits, so talk to your provider first.
  • Aerosol and Paint cans must be empty or completely dried out to be accepted.

Best Practices for Smooth Use

  • Sort Ahead — Segregate recyclables, trash, and banned items before loading to save time and eliminate contamination charges.
  • Know the Rules — Check the local disposability rules or ask your provider to ensure what they accept before you toss anything that seems questionable.
  • Be Aware of Weight — Heavy debris like dirt, concrete, or shingles can quickly exceed weight limits and cause penalties, or rejected pickups altogether.
  • Load Wisely — Load flat materials first, take apart cumbersome debris, and distribute materials as evenly as possible, to optimize space and keep it as safe as possible.
  • Plan Ahead — Make a plan for anything that is not accepted in your roll off, including e-waste, chemicals, tires, etc., before you start your project.

Contact Middleboro Recycling

Knowing what can be put in a roll-off dumpster helps in making your cleanup safe, efficient, and compliant. If you follow the guidelines and double-check the rules of your local scrap metal facility, you can avoid potential costly mistakes. If you want to get expert advice and use a reliable service, Middleboro Recycling will help you negotiate your disposal process with confidence and ease. Fill out our contact form to request a roll-off dumpster or give us a call at (508) 946-2383.