Renting a roll-off dumpster is one of the easiest ways to handle debris from a home cleanout, renovation, or construction project. But before you start tossing items in, it is important to know what is allowed and what is not.
Certain materials are prohibited by law or by disposal facilities, and putting the wrong items in your dumpster can result in extra fees or even rejected loads. At R&G Transportation, we want to make the process simple for our customers in Bakersfield and throughout Kern County. Here is a clear breakdown of what you can and cannot put in a roll-off dumpster.
What You Can Put in a Roll-Off Dumpster
Most common household and construction debris is perfectly fine to throw in a dumpster. Here are some of the materials we accept:
General Household Items
- Old furniture (couches, tables, chairs, mattresses)
- Clothing and textiles
- Books, papers, and cardboard
- Small appliances (microwaves, toasters, fans)
- Toys and sporting equipment
- Household clutter and junk
Construction and Renovation Debris
- Drywall and sheetrock
- Lumber and wood scraps
- Roofing shingles
- Flooring materials (tile, carpet, hardwood)
- Siding and trim
- Cabinets and countertops
- Doors and windows (glass removed or taped)
Yard Waste
- Branches and tree limbs
- Leaves and grass clippings
- Shrubs and bushes
- Dirt and soil (in limited amounts)
Heavy Materials (with some restrictions)
- Concrete and asphalt
- Brick and block
- Stone and gravel
Note: Heavy materials like concrete and dirt are usually limited due to weight restrictions. If your project involves a lot of heavy debris, let us know when you request your quote so we can recommend the right dumpster size and avoid overweight fees.
What Cannot Go in a Roll-Off Dumpster
Some items are not allowed in dumpsters because they are hazardous, require special disposal, or are banned by local regulations. Putting these items in your dumpster can result in additional charges or cause delays.
Hazardous Materials
- Paints, stains, and lacquers
- Motor oil and automotive fluids
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Cleaning solvents and chemicals
- Propane tanks and other compressed gases
- Batteries (car batteries and lithium batteries)
- Fluorescent light bulbs and tubes
Appliances with Freon
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Air conditioning units
- Dehumidifiers
These appliances contain refrigerants that must be properly removed before disposal. Some haulers will accept them for an additional fee if the Freon has been professionally drained.
Electronics (E-Waste)
- Televisions and computer monitors
- Computers and laptops
- Printers and copiers
Electronics contain materials that require special recycling. Kern County has e-waste drop-off locations where these items can be disposed of properly.
Other Prohibited Items
- Tires (accepted at some facilities for an extra fee)
- Medical waste
- Asbestos-containing materials
- Railroad ties
- Sealed barrels or drums
Why These Rules Matter
Disposal facilities have strict guidelines about what they can accept. When prohibited items end up in a dumpster, the load may be rejected or require special handling, which increases costs for everyone. By following these guidelines, you help keep disposal fees down and ensure your debris is handled responsibly.
Not Sure About an Item? Just Ask.
If you are not sure whether something can go in your dumpster, give us a call. At R&G Transportation, we are happy to answer questions and help you figure out the best way to dispose of your materials. We have been serving Bakersfield and the surrounding areas for years, so we know the local rules and can point you in the right direction.
Need a dumpster for your next project? Request a free quote today, and we will help you get started.