You’re cleaning out the garage, tackling a remodel, or finally getting rid of those mystery boxes in the shed—and as you toss things into your dumpster, you pause. What is that rusty can of paint thinner doing back there? And is that… a car battery?
You start to wonder: “Can I throw this in the dumpster?”
Let’s clear it up right now: hazardous materials do not belong in your dumpster. Not ours, not anyone’s.
At Dump Co. Rentals, we make junk disappear across Southern Utah—Cedar City, St. George, Hurricane, Beaver, and Brian Head—but we draw the line at dangerous stuff. Not because we’re picky (okay, maybe a little), but because hazardous waste disposal is serious business, with rules and safety concerns to match.
Here’s everything you need to know about hazardous materials and how to handle them the right way.
What Are Hazardous Materials?
Great question. “Hazardous” sounds like a sci-fi word, but it actually covers a lot of everyday stuff.
A material is considered hazardous if it can:
- Catch fire easily
- React or explode under certain conditions
- Corrode metal
- Poison people or animals
- Harm the environment
Common examples of hazardous waste include:
- Paints, solvents, and paint thinners
- Motor oil and automotive fluids
- Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers
- Cleaning chemicals (especially bleach or ammonia-based)
- Batteries (car or household)
- Electronics with screens or lithium batteries
- Aerosol cans
- Propane tanks
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Tires
If it came with a warning label, there’s a good chance it shouldn’t go in a regular dumpster.
Why Can’t Hazardous Materials Go in a Dumpster?
Hazardous materials can cause a range of problems when they’re tossed in a dumpster:
- Fire Risk: Flammable items can ignite during transport or at the landfill.
- Toxic Exposure: Some chemicals release harmful fumes or leach into the soil and groundwater.
- Equipment Damage: Corrosive materials can eat away at our dumpsters, trucks, and sorting equipment.
- Legal Issues: Dumping hazardous waste illegally can lead to fines and penalties for everyone involved—including you.
That’s why there are federal and state laws (yes, even in laid-back Utah) that strictly regulate how these materials are handled. And trust us, a little paint thinner isn’t worth the paperwork.
What Happens If I Accidentally Throw Something Hazardous in the Dumpster?
Mistakes happen. If we notice something hazardous in a load when we pick it up or at the landfill, the entire dumpster might be rejected—and we’ll have to bring it back for you to sort.
Even worse, you could be liable for cleanup costs or environmental fines, especially if it causes damage or contamination.
Our advice? When in doubt, leave it out—and ask us!
How Should I Dispose of Hazardous Materials?
Southern Utah has several safe, legal ways to dispose of hazardous waste. Here are a few tips to keep things clean and compliant:
1. Use Local Hazardous Waste Collection Events
Cities like Cedar City and St. George host community drop-off events for paint, batteries, electronics, and more. These are usually free or low-cost.
2. Take Items to an Approved Facility
Some transfer stations or recycling centers accept hazardous materials—but only certain types. Always call ahead.
3. Retail Take-Back Programs
Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and AutoZone often accept:
- Used motor oil
- Car batteries
- Compact fluorescent bulbs
- Old paint (some locations)
4. Ask Us for a Recommendation
We may not take hazardous materials, but we do know who does. Give us a call and we’ll point you in the right direction.
So… What Can Go in a Dumpster?
To keep it simple, here’s what you can toss in a Dump Co. Rentals dumpster:
✔️ Construction debris (drywall, wood, shingles, concrete)
✔️ Household junk (old furniture, boxes, non-electronic appliances)
✔️ Yard waste (branches, clippings, dirt)
✔️ Remodeling scraps (cabinets, countertops, flooring)
Basically, if it’s not a chemical, explosive, battery, or electronic device—it’s probably good to go.
Need a full list of do’s and don’ts? Just ask. We’ll happily send you a guide or walk you through it before drop-off.
Pro Tip: Keep It Separated
If you know you’ll be dealing with both regular junk and hazardous items, keep them separate from the start. It’ll make life easier—and safer—for everyone involved. Label anything questionable, and store it safely until you can dispose of it properly.
Final Word: Keep It Safe, Keep It Clean
We get it—dumpsters are convenient. But they’re not a catch-all for every item under the sun. At Dump Co. Rentals, we’re here to make your cleanup easier, not land you in hot water with the EPA.
If you’re ever unsure about what can go in your dumpster, don’t guess—just ask. We’re real humans (not robots), and we’re always happy to help you make the right call.
Book a Dumpster the Smart Way
Need a dumpster for your next project? Ready to clean out that garage or finish that remodel? We’ve got the right size for the job—and the know-how to help you use it safely.
Serving Cedar City, St. George, Hurricane, Beaver, and Brian Head, Dump Co. Rentals is your go-to for fast, friendly, and responsible dumpster rentals in Southern Utah.
Let’s keep it clean, folks.
