What Can and Can't Go in Your St. Paul Dumpster Rental

One of the most common questions we get from St. Paul customers is: "What can I put in my dumpster?" The answer isn't always straightforward, as different materials have different disposal requirements and restrictions.

What CAN Go in Your Dumpster

General Household Items

• Furniture (couches, chairs, tables, dressers)
• Clothing and textiles
• Books, papers, and cardboard
• Toys and sporting goods
• Small appliances (microwaves, toasters, etc.)
• Dishes and kitchenware

Construction and Renovation Debris

• Drywall and plaster
• Wood and lumber
• Flooring materials (hardwood, laminate, tile)
• Cabinets and countertops
• Windows and doors
• Insulation (non-asbestos)
• Roofing materials (shingles, gutters)

Yard Waste

• Branches and tree limbs
• Leaves and grass clippings
• Shrubs and bushes
• Garden debris

Heavy Materials (Weight Restrictions Apply)

• Concrete and cement
• Brick and stone
• Dirt and soil
• Sand and gravel

Note: These materials are very heavy and may require a smaller dumpster or separate disposal to avoid overage charges.

What CANNOT Go in Your Dumpster

Hazardous Materials

• Paint and paint thinners
• Motor oil and automotive fluids
• Gasoline and other fuels
• Propane tanks
• Chemicals and pesticides
• Asbestos materials
• Lead-based paint debris

Electronics and Appliances

• Televisions and computer monitors
• Computers and laptops
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Air conditioners
• Washers and dryers
• Cell phones and batteries

Automotive Items

• Car tires
• Car batteries
• Auto parts with fluids

Other Prohibited Items

• Medical waste
• Radioactive materials
• Explosives or ammunition
• Dead animals
• Liquid waste
• Hot materials (ashes, coals)

Special Disposal Requirements in St. Paul

Electronics Recycling

Minnesota law requires proper recycling of electronics. St. Paul offers several options:

• Ramsey County Drop-off: Free electronics recycling at county facilities
• Retail take-back: Many stores accept electronics for recycling
• Special collection events: City-sponsored recycling events

Appliance Disposal

Large appliances require special handling:

• Refrigerators/Freezers: Must have refrigerant removed by certified technician
• Washers/Dryers: Can often be recycled for scrap metal
• Water heaters: Check with local scrap dealers

Hazardous Waste Disposal

Ramsey County operates hazardous waste facilities for residents:

• Location: 1425 Woodlane Drive, Woodbury
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (hours vary by season)
• Accepted items: Paint, chemicals, batteries, fluorescent bulbs

Weight Limits and Overage Charges

Standard Weight Allowances

• 10-yard dumpster: 1 ton included
• 20-yard dumpster: 2 tons included
• 30-yard dumpster: 3 tons included
• 40-yard dumpster: 4 tons included

Heavy Material Guidelines

To avoid overage charges:

• Use smaller dumpsters for concrete, brick, or dirt
• Mix heavy materials with lighter debris
• Consider separate disposal for very heavy materials

Loading Tips for Maximum Efficiency

Proper Loading Technique

• Load heavy items first
• Break down large items when possible
• Fill gaps with smaller debris
• Keep materials level with the top of the dumpster

Safety Considerations

• Don't overfill – materials shouldn't extend above the rim
• Distribute weight evenly
• Keep walkways clear
• Wear appropriate safety gear

Recycling and Donation Alternatives

Items Worth Donating

• Usable furniture and appliances
• Clothing and household goods
• Building materials in good condition
• Books and electronics

Local Donation Options

• Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Building materials, appliances
• Goodwill/Salvation Army: Household goods, clothing
• Arc's Value Village: Various household items
• Libraries: Books and media

What Happens if You Put Prohibited Items?

Potential Consequences

• Additional disposal fees
• Delayed pickup
• Environmental fines
• Contamination of entire load

How We Handle Violations

If we discover prohibited items:

• We'll contact you immediately
• Items must be removed before pickup
• Additional fees may apply
• We'll help you find proper disposal options

When in Doubt, Ask

Not sure if something can go in your dumpster? Don't guess – call us at (651) 342-7269. We'd rather answer your questions upfront than deal with problems at pickup time. Our St. Paul team knows local disposal regulations and can guide you to the right solution for any material.

Planning Your Disposal Strategy

Before your dumpster arrives:

• Sort materials into acceptable and prohibited items
• Arrange alternative disposal for prohibited items
• Consider donation options for usable items
• Plan your loading strategy for maximum efficiency

Proper planning ensures your St. Paul project goes smoothly and stays within budget. When you know what can and can't go in your dumpster, you can focus on your project instead of worrying about disposal issues.