What Types of Waste Are Allowed in a Rented Dumpster?
Whether you are finishing a basement in Tigard or clearing a construction site in Hillsboro, knowing how to load your dumpster can save you hundreds in landfill surcharges.
At OJB Solutions, we provide "One Team" support. Not only do we offer driveway-friendly trailers, but we also help you navigate the complex recycling laws of the Pacific Northwest.
1. The "Green Light" List: Generally Accepted Items
Most household and construction debris is perfectly safe for our trailers. If you are doing a standard cleanout or remodel, these items are a go:
Household Junk: Toys, clothing, rugs, old documents, and general "attic finds."
Furniture: Wooden tables, chairs, dressers, and bed frames. (Note: Mattresses are allowed but often carry a small per-item surcharge due to landfill recycling rules).
Construction Debris: Drywall, insulation, siding, shingles, and untreated lumber.
Flooring: Tile, laminate, carpet padding, and old hardwood.
Yard Debris: Branches, leaves, and grass clippings. (If you have a massive amount of dirt or sod, let us know—these require "heavy-fill" trailers due to weight).
2. The "Yellow Light" List: Items with Special Rules
Some items are allowed, but they require a little extra prep to stay within Oregon environmental laws:
Appliances: Stoves, washers, and dryers are fine. However, anything containing refrigerants (Fridges, Freezers, AC units) must be handled separately to ensure the Freon is drained safely.
Paint Cans: We cannot take liquid paint. However, if the can is bone-dry or contains less than one inch of hardened paint, it can typically be tossed in.
Electronics (E-Waste): While small gadgets are often okay, Oregon law (E-Cycles) bans computers, monitors, and TVs from landfills. We recommend full-service junk removal for these so we can recycle them properly.
3. The "Red Light" List: Strictly Prohibited
For the safety of our crew and the environment, certain hazardous materials are strictly prohibited in standard dumpsters. If found, these can lead to heavy fines from the transfer station:
Hazardous Chemicals: Solvents, pesticides, pool chemicals, and strong cleaners.
Automotive Fluids: Motor oil, antifreeze, and gasoline.
Tires: It is illegal to dispose of tires in Oregon landfills.
Batteries: Lead-acid (car) batteries and lithium-ion batteries are fire hazards and must be taken to a Metro hazardous waste facility.
Asbestos: If you are doing a demolition of an older home, asbestos-containing materials require a specialized abatement plan and cannot be mixed with general trash.
Pro-Tip: Avoid the "Overage Fee"
Transfer stations in Portland and Vancouver charge by weight. If you are tossing heavy materials like brick, concrete, or dirt, fill the trailer only halfway. Overloading a trailer not only makes it unsafe to tow but can result in significant weight overages on your final bill.
Why Choose OJB Solutions for Your Project?
Unlike the "big box" dumpster companies, we are a local, licensed contractor (OR CCB #255649 | WA #OREGOJB755C8).
Driveway-Friendly: Our rubber-tired trailers won't ruin your driveway like heavy steel roll-offs.
Local Expertise: We know the Metro Central and Metro South rules inside and out, keeping you in compliance.
Flat-Rate Options: We offer transparent pricing so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Not sure if your junk is allowed?
Don't guess and risk a fine. Take a photo of your pile and text it to us!
Call or Text OJB Solutions at 503-882-0704 for a free waste consultation.
Serving Portland, Gresham, Lake Oswego, and Vancouver, WA.
