There are several reasons to rent a dumpster. Perhaps you are doing some remodeling and want to clean out old building materials and debris. Maybe it’s time to clear out your attic or garage so it’s actually a usable space. Waste and recycling are a very important part of our society and it is regulated now. Similarly, a dumpster isn’t just a big clunky metal box you throw junk into. It’s a piece of equipment that you use to dispose of potentially harmful materials. And the state regulates dumpsters. While mass.gov covers everything you can possible want to know about waste, recycling, and renting dumpsters, here are the key points you should be aware of.
Massachusetts Dumpster Laws
Massachusetts isn’t too concerned about the dumpster itself (at least on the state level). State dumpster laws regulate what can and cannot go into a dumpster. They are primarily trying to limit harmful substances from making their way into landfills. Regulations regarding the actual dumpster are left to local governments.
What Can You Place in a Dumpster?
Massachusetts state laws regarding dumpsters are basically concerned with safe disposal of dangerous material. Two very important things are asbestos and lead paint. You need to hire a professional to remove lead paint. If you come across asbestos, you either need to get a special permit or stop working until the issue is resolved. Neither of these materials are suitable for landfills and may not be placed in a dumpster. You should not put anything which contains a chemical substance into a dumpster.
Here is a list of items that you should not put into dumpsters:
- Automobile tires
- Medical waste (learn how to dispose of those here)
- Paint cans (or any container with paint, paint thinner, or wood stain)
- Car batteries and lithium batteries
- Railroad ties
- Propane tanks (please do not, this has been known to cause explosions)
- Household cleaners
- Refrigerators
While this is an incomplete list, it covers many of the most commonly asked about products and substances.
Local Dumpster Laws
While the state laws are fairly straight forward. Local laws can get confusing. Each town will have specific ordinances for dumpster rental and use. Before you rent a dumpster it pays to do a little research. The first place to check is your town’s board of health, it’s not uncommon for temporary dumpster ordinances to fall under their jurisdiction. As long as you stick to the rules, you should get approval on your permit. Be careful where you place the dumpster. Make sure you have permission before you block any sidewalk or street.
In addition to state and local laws, your dumpster provider may have specific regulations they insists upon depending on their company policies or relationships with landfills they use.
One of the best ways to learn about dumpster rentals is by contacting the experts. Here at New England Enterprises, located in Marlborough, MA we offer several sizes of dumpsters and can help you through the details of the process. We have dealt with all sorts of ordinances, permits, and unique situations. If you would like more information about renting dumpsters, please explore our services. We are a fully licensed and insured excavation contractor. Our team of professionals would love to hear from you.