Prohibited Items
Certain items cannot be disposed of in dumpsters due to safety and environmental regulations. Review this list before loading your dumpster.
Placing prohibited items in a dumpster may result in additional fees and delays. When in doubt, call us first!
Items That Cannot Go in the Dumpster
Hazardous Materials
- Paint (latex or oil-based)
- Paint thinners and solvents
- Motor oil and automotive fluids
- Gasoline, diesel, and other fuels
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Pool chemicals
- Cleaning chemicals in liquid form
- Acids and corrosives
Take to Duval County Household Hazardous Waste facility or schedule a special pickup through COJ.
Batteries
- Car batteries (lead-acid)
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Rechargeable batteries
- Industrial batteries
- Alkaline batteries (large quantities)
Auto parts stores accept car batteries. Electronics retailers accept rechargeable batteries. Many home improvement stores have battery recycling.
Pressurized Containers
- Propane tanks (any size)
- Compressed gas cylinders
- Fire extinguishers
- Aerosol cans with contents
- Helium tanks
Propane tanks can be exchanged at many retailers. Fire extinguishers and compressed gas cylinders require specialized recycling.
Electronics (E-Waste)
- Televisions
- Computer monitors
- Desktop and laptop computers
- Printers and copiers
- Cell phones and tablets
- DVD players and gaming consoles
Best Buy offers free electronics recycling. Many Office Depot locations accept computers and printers. Check for local e-waste collection events.
Appliances with Refrigerants
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Air conditioners (window and central)
- Dehumidifiers
- Water coolers
- Mini fridges
These appliances CAN be accepted if a certified technician has removed the refrigerants and you have documentation. Otherwise, contact an appliance recycler or scrap metal dealer.
Tires
- Car tires
- Truck tires
- Motorcycle tires
- Bicycle tires (large quantities)
- Tires on rims
Tire retailers typically accept old tires for a fee. Some landfills have separate tire collection. Check with local recycling facilities.
Medical & Biological Waste
- Syringes and needles (sharps)
- Prescription medications
- Medical equipment
- Biohazardous materials
- Blood and body fluids
Pharmacies accept unused medications. Sharps containers should be taken to designated medical waste facilities. Contact your doctor or hospital for guidance.
Other Prohibited Items
- Asbestos-containing materials
- Fluorescent light bulbs and tubes
- Mercury thermometers
- Hot water heaters (some locations)
- Railroad ties
- Toxic substances
These items require specialized handling. Contact your local waste management authority for proper disposal options.
What CAN Go in the Dumpster
Most common household and construction debris is accepted.
Note About Heavy Materials
Concrete, brick, and soil are accepted but in limited quantities due to weight. These materials are very heavy and can quickly reach weight limits. We recommend filling no more than 1/4 of a 10-yard dumpster with heavy materials. Call us for guidance on disposing of large amounts of concrete or masonry.
Not Sure About an Item?
When in doubt, give us a call before throwing it in the dumpster. We are happy to help you determine the proper disposal method.