What Materials Are Prohibited?

Although disposal rules may differ for certain materials, some items are universally prohibited from being thrown in dumpsters. This list includes refrigerators, tires, chemicals, glass, car batteries, railroad ties, and any other materials that are toxic, pose a significant safety hazard, or could damage the container.

Refrigerators

Refrigerators cannot be disposed of in a dumpster due to the toxic refrigerant they contain.  In some locations, once an HVAC professional has drained your refrigerator, it may be discarded in a dumpster.

Tires

You cannot throw tires in a dumpster, as they can damage landfill structures and equipment. Whole tires can "float" to the top of a landfill as methane gas builds up inside the tire's inner wall. Most auto parts stores and municipal waste departments accept old tires to recycle them into asphalt and other industrial applications.

Paint Cans & Lacquers

Old paints and lacquers cannot be disposed of freely, as they may contain harmful substances like lead or mercury, especially if produced before the 1990s. Items to avoid include paint thinners, lacquers, and wood stains.

However, you can dispose of dry latex paint as long as solidified, and it's wrapped in a plastic bag. Empty paint cans are accepted.

Car Batteries

Car batteries, as well as lithium batteries, cannot be put in a dumpster because they can leak chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Lithium batteries, like those found in laptops, can be recycled at most big-box electronics stores. General-purpose alkaline batteries, such as AA, AAA and D, are allowed in a dumpster.

Medical Infectious Waste

Infectious waste includes materials that have been used in medicine or come into contact with bodily fluids. Used medical supplies, including needles and bandages, should be handled by haulers with a license for medical waste disposal.

Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials and liquids cannot go in a dumpster. Examples of Hazardous Waste include asbestos, pesticides, contaminated soils or absorbents, motor oil, other automotive fluids and medical waste. Always make sure to follow the proper procedures in your location and find a hazardous waste collection center near you to handle the disposal responsibly.

Contaminated Soils & Absorbents

Contaminated soils and absorbents that are mixed with hazardous substances cannot be disposed of through normal waste haulers. They must either be treated or contained per federal Superfund guidelines.

Household Cleaners

Chemical cleaners or solvents should not be thrown away in a dumpster. Empty containers are usually accepted, as long as they do not contain residual chemicals.

Oils, Fuels & Propane Tanks

Disposing of propane tanks, fuels, oils and other flammable materials in a dumpster is a serious safety hazard. These substances are highly combustible, and disposing of them improperly is illegal in most areas. You should contact a propane company, your local fire department or a hazardous material collection center for further disposal information.

Railroad Ties

Since many railroad ties are treated with harmful wood preservatives, they aren’t allowed in our dumpsters.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a flame retardant found in older homes and various industrial products. It is considered a carcinogen, which has resulted in landfill bans in most U.S. states. If you know your home contains asbestos, contact a licensed asbestos abatement contractor for safe removal and disposal.