What Can (and Can't) Go in a Dumpster in Ottawa
One of the most common questions we get, and one of the easiest ways to avoid extra fees or delays: knowing what's actually allowed in your bin before it shows up. Here's the real breakdown.
What You Can Put In
Most everyday renovation, cleanout, and demolition debris is fair game:
- Drywall, lumber, and general construction debris
- Flooring, cabinetry, doors, windows
- Furniture, mattresses, and household junk
- Yard waste — branches, brush, sod
- Roofing shingles (single-layer tear-offs)
- Household garbage from cleanouts
- Non-hazardous packaging and general clutter
If you're not sure whether something specific counts, the safest rule of thumb: if it's not liquid, hazardous, or explicitly listed below, it's almost always fine.
What Can't Go In
These items are restricted across the industry, not just with us — most companies (including us) can't accept them due to disposal facility rules and safety regulations:
- Hazardous waste, chemicals, herbicides, and pesticides
- Paint and other liquids (dried, empty paint cans are usually fine — check with us first)
- Batteries and electronics (e-waste has separate recycling requirements)
- Propane tanks and other pressurized containers
- Tires
- Motor oil, transmission fluid, and other automotive fluids
- Asbestos
- Medical waste
- Appliances (often allowed with an added charge — ask before you toss one in)
Weight Matters as Much as What You Put In
Even allowed materials can add up fast in weight. Heavy items like shingles, tile, concrete, or dirt fill up your weight allowance well before they fill the bin visually. If your project involves anything dense, tell us when you book — it affects sizing more than the "how full does it look" test does.
Not Sure About Something Specific?
Call us before you toss it — 613-807-6879. It takes ten seconds and saves you from an overage charge or a bin that can't be picked up as scheduled. And if you're still working out what size bin your project needs in the first place, check our sizing guide.