Prohibited Items & Fees
Before renting a dumpster, it is important to understand which materials are allowed, which items may require extra fees, and which materials are prohibited. CAM’s provides clear guidance on disposal rules to help customers avoid delays, rejected loads, and unexpected charges.
This FAQ covers common questions about mattresses, appliances, electronics, tires, paint, heavy materials, hazardous waste, yard waste, and other items that may affect dumpster rental pricing or disposal requirements in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Are mattresses allowed in the dumpster?
No. Mattresses and box springs are prohibited items.
Why do mattresses cost extra or get rejected?
Many disposal facilities have special handling requirements and fees for mattresses and box springs. Massachusetts requires them to be recycled, we do not offer this service.
Can I throw away appliances or electronics?
Some electronics and appliances may be accepted with additional disposal fees. Appliances that contain Freon, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, are prohibited and cannot be placed in the dumpster. Contact CAM’s if you have any concerns before placing appliances or electronics in the dumpster.
Can I put a refrigerator or air conditioner in the dumpster?
No. Appliances containing Freon are prohibited.
Can I put batteries in the dumpster?
No. Batteries are prohibited and cannot be placed in the dumpster. This includes car batteries, lawnmower batteries, electric tool batteries, cellphone batteries, external battery charging bricks, and any other rechargeable or hazardous batteries.
Is there an extra fee for tires or bulky items?
Yes. Tires, couches, recliners, and similar bulky items may incur additional disposal charges. Please refer to the Sizing & Pricing page.
Can I dispose of paint in the dumpster?
Paint is only allowed if it has been completely dried out or hardened before disposal.
Are yard waste or construction debris allowed?
Some construction debris is allowed, but dirt, concrete, asphalt, brick, block, gravel, rocks, sand, stone, and yard waste are prohibited.
Why are concrete, dirt, and asphalt prohibited?
These materials are extremely heavy and require specialized disposal methods that standard dumpster pricing does not cover.
Can I load heavy materials into the dumpster?
Heavy materials such as concrete, dirt, brick, asphalt, gravel, and stone are prohibited in standard dumpsters. Heavy items may also result in additional fees. Please refer to the Sizing and Pricing page for more information.
Can I mix household junk and construction debris?
Yes, as long as prohibited items are not included.
What happens if prohibited items are found in the dumpster?
If prohibited items are found, the dumpster may be left on site until those items are removed, or additional fees may be charged. Customers are responsible for everything placed in the dumpster during the rental period.
Can I put food waste in the dumpster?
No. Food waste is prohibited.
Can I burn materials inside the dumpster?
No. Burning or hot materials are strictly prohibited.
What items are considered hazardous waste?
Hazardous materials include asbestos, radioactive materials, biological waste, liquid waste, oils, solvents, and certain chemicals.
Can I put a TV in the dumpster?
TVs, monitors, and other electronics may require special handling and may be subject to additional disposal fees. Contact CAM’s if you have any concerns before placing electronics in the dumpster.
Do I need to separate materials before loading the dumpster?
In most cases, general household junk and allowable construction debris can be mixed together. Prohibited items must be kept out of the dumpster. Scrap metal dumpsters should be used only for approved recyclable metal materials.
What if I accidentally throw away prohibited items?
Please contact CAM’s immediately so the issue can be addressed before pickup and disposal.
