Embarking on a home renovation, major cleanout, or construction project in Denver? One of the first things you’ll likely consider is how to efficiently and responsibly manage the waste. That’s where roll-off dumpsters come in! At Total Disposal, we understand that for many, renting a dumpster might feel like a new frontier. You’ve got questions, and we’ve got answers.
We believe that an informed customer is a happy customer. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top five most frequently asked questions we receive about dumpster rentals. Our goal is to provide you with the clarity and confidence you need to make your next project a smooth and stress-free experience, from start to finish.
Let’s dive into the details, Denver!
Question 1: How Do I Choose the Right Dumpster Size
Choosing the correct dumpster size is arguably the most critical decision you’ll make when renting a container. Too small, and you’ll incur additional costs for an extra pickup or a second dumpster. Too large, and you’re paying for unused space. At Total Disposal, we offer a range of sizes to perfectly match your project’s scope, from minor cleanouts to major construction.
To help you visualize, a “cubic yard” is a volume measurement, equivalent to a cube that’s 3 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet high. It’s often helpful to think in terms of standard pickup truck loads.
Here’s a breakdown of our common dumpster sizes and their ideal uses:
10-Yard Dumpster (Approx. 14′ L x 7.5′ W x 3.5′ H)
Capacity: Roughly equivalent to 4 pickup truck loads.
Ideal For:
Small garage or attic cleanouts.
Minor landscaping projects (e.g., small tree trimming, brush removal).
Single room decluttering.
Small bathroom remodels (e.g., removing a vanity, toilet, and some tile).
Disposal of heavy debris in small quantities, like concrete or dirt, where weight can quickly add up.
Think Of It As: Your go-to for smaller DIY projects or when you’re just tackling one specific area of your home.
15-Yard Dumpster (Approx. 16′ L x 7.5′ W x 4.5′ H)
Capacity: Roughly equivalent to 6 pickup truck loads.
Ideal For:
Medium-sized room renovations (e.g., a small kitchen or larger bathroom remodel).
Larger garage or basement cleanouts.
Deck removal (up to 250-300 square feet).
Roofing projects (shingles from about 1,500 to 2,000 square feet of single-layer roof).
Think Of It As: A versatile option for homeowners with moderate-sized projects that need a bit more space than a 10-yard bin.
20-Yard Dumpster (Approx. 22′ L x 7.5′ W x 4.5′ H)
Capacity: Roughly equivalent to 8 pickup truck loads. This is often our most popular size due to its versatility and manageable footprint.
Ideal For:
Multi-room renovations or larger home cleanouts.
Major landscaping projects (tree removal, large brush clearing).
Flooring or carpet removal from a large house.
Roofing projects for larger homes (up to 3,000 square feet of single-layer shingles).
Small to medium-sized construction projects.
Think Of It As: The workhorse for a wide range of residential and light commercial projects, offering ample space without being overwhelmingly large.
30-Yard Dumpster (Approx. 22′ L x 7.5′ W x 6′ H)
Capacity: Roughly equivalent to 12 pickup truck loads.
Ideal For:
Major home additions or full home renovations.
New home construction debris.
Large-scale commercial cleanouts.
Demolition of a garage or small shed.
Window or siding replacement for a medium to large-sized home.
Think Of It As: Perfect for significant projects that generate a large volume of debris.
40-Yard Dumpster (Approx. 22′ L x 7.5′ W x 8′ H)
Capacity: Roughly equivalent to 16 pickup truck loads. This is our largest option.
Ideal For:
Large commercial construction or demolition projects.
Whole-building cleanouts or multi-unit property renovations.
Major cleanouts of commercial warehouses or industrial sites.
Large-scale landscaping or land clearing projects.
Think Of It As: The solution for the biggest jobs, designed to handle vast amounts of debris efficiently.
Tips for Estimating Your Needs:
Assess the Volume: Walk through your project area and try to visualize the amount of waste. If possible, gather your waste into a pile to get a better estimate of its total volume.
Consider the Type of Material: Heavy materials like concrete, dirt, asphalt, bricks, and roofing shingles take up less space but can quickly hit weight limits. If your project involves a lot of these, you might need a smaller dumpster with a higher weight allowance, or be prepared for potential overage fees. Lighter, bulky items like furniture or brush will fill up a dumpster quickly by volume but are less likely to exceed weight limits.
Consult with Us: Don’t hesitate to call Total Disposal of Denver! Our experienced team can help you determine the most appropriate size based on your project description and the types of materials you plan to dispose of. We’re experts at this, and we’ll ensure you get the right fit
Question 2: What Can and Cannot Be Put in a Dumpster?
Understanding what materials are accepted and prohibited in our dumpsters is crucial for a smooth rental experience and to avoid additional fees or complications. Generally, our dumpsters are designed for the safe and efficient disposal of common household junk, construction and demolition debris, and yard waste. However, certain items are strictly prohibited for safety, environmental, and regulatory reasons.
What You CAN Generally Put in a Total Disposal Dumpster:
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Household Junk: Furniture (chairs, tables, dressers, bed frames – excluding some upholstered items, see below), clothing, toys, dishes, general clutter, boxed items, carpets, and non-organic waste.
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Construction & Demolition Debris: Drywall, lumber, roofing shingles (asphalt, wood, but not typically slate or tile due to weight), siding, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, toilets, sinks, bathtubs, bricks, concrete (in limited quantities, often requiring a dedicated bin for large amounts), and other non-hazardous building materials.
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Yard Waste: Branches, leaves, grass clippings, shrubs, small trees (check for stump restrictions and size limits), and dirt (clean fill dirt in moderate quantities, separate from other debris often).
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Appliances (Non-Freon): Microwaves, blenders, toasters, washing machines, dryers, stoves (ensure all fuel/oil is removed).
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Electronics (E-Waste): Computers, TVs, monitors, printers, and other electronic devices are often accepted in small quantities. For large amounts, specialized e-waste recycling is recommended.
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Empty Aerosol Cans: Must be completely empty.
What You CANNOT Put in a Total Disposal Dumpster (Prohibited Items):
These items are universally prohibited due to environmental hazards, landfill restrictions, or safety concerns during transport and disposal:
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Hazardous Materials:
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Paints, Stains, and Solvents: Wet paints (latex or oil-based), lacquers, paint thinners. Empty, dried paint cans may be accepted, but it’s best to check.
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Chemicals: Bleach, pesticides, fertilizers, pool chemicals, cleaning solutions, corrosive liquids, acids, bases.
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Flammable Liquids: Gasoline, motor oil, antifreeze, propane tanks, full aerosol cans.
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Asbestos: Any material containing asbestos is a severe health hazard and requires specialized removal and disposal.
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Medical Waste/Biohazardous Materials: Needles, syringes, contaminated bandages, bodily fluids.
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Appliances with Freon: Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning units. These require professional Freon removal before disposal.
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Tires: Due to their composition and environmental impact, tires are typically not accepted in general waste streams. They require specialized recycling.
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Batteries: Car batteries, rechargeable batteries (lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, etc.). Standard alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, D, etc.) are often allowed, but it’s best to confirm.
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Explosives/Ammunition: Any kind of explosive material, fireworks, or ammunition..
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Railroad Ties: These are often treated with creosote, a hazardous chemical.
Why the Restrictions?
These restrictions are in place to comply with local, state, and federal regulations, protect our environment, ensure the safety of our team and the public, and prevent damage to our equipment and disposal facilities. Improper disposal of hazardous materials can lead to significant fines for both the customer and Total Disposal.
Always Ask if Unsure!
If you have any doubt about whether a specific item can be placed in your dumpster, please call Total Disposal first! It’s always better to ask than to risk a rejected pickup or unexpected fees. We’re here to guide you through the process and ensure your disposal is handled responsibly.
Question 3: How Long Can I Keep the Dumpster?
The typical rental period for our dumpsters in Denver varies depending on your project’s needs and our current availability, but it’s generally 7 to 14 days. This timeframe usually provides ample opportunity for most residential cleanouts, renovations, and small to medium-sized construction jobs. We aim to be flexible and accommodate your schedule as much as possible.
Standard Rental Period:
When you book your dumpster with Total Disposal, we’ll confirm the standard rental duration included in your quoted price. This period accounts for the time you’ll have the dumpster on your property to fill it at your convenience.
Planning for Your Project Timeline:
It’s always a good idea to have a rough timeline for your project before you schedule your dumpster delivery. This helps ensure you order the dumpster for the most effective period.
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Preparation is Key: To maximize your rental period, consider having as much of your debris as possible gathered and ready to load before the dumpster even arrives. This can save you valuable time during the rental period itself.
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Efficient Loading: Loading the dumpster systematically can also speed up the process. Break down larger items, flatten cardboard boxes, and load heavier items first to distribute weight evenly and avoid exceeding the weight limit prematurely.
What if My Project Takes Longer? (Extensions)
We understand that projects don’t always go exactly as planned. Delays can occur due to unforeseen circumstances, weather, or simply the scope of work expanding. If you find that you need the dumpster for a longer period than initially agreed upon, please contact Total Disposal of Denver as soon as possible.
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Daily Extension Fees: We typically offer daily extension fees for periods beyond the standard rental duration. These fees are usually a modest charge per day, designed to cover the additional time our equipment is out of circulation.
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Availability: While we strive to accommodate all extension requests, extensions are always subject to dumpster availability. Especially during peak seasons (like spring and summer for many Denver projects), our inventory can be in high demand. Giving us advance notice significantly increases the likelihood that we can extend your rental without interruption.
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Communication is Crucial: The key to a smooth extension process is communication. Don’t wait until the last minute on your final rental day to call us. As soon as you anticipate needing more time, reach out to our customer service team. We’ll work with you to make the necessary arrangements and discuss any applicable extension fees.
Our goal is to provide a hassle-free experience, and that includes being understanding and flexible when your project timeline shifts. Just let us know, and we’ll do our best to help you keep things moving!
Question 4: Do I Need a Permit for My Dumpster Rental in Denver?
This is a critically important question, especially for those living or working within the City and County of Denver, or surrounding municipalities. The need for a permit largely depends on where the dumpster will be placed.
On Private Property (No Permit Typically Needed):
If the dumpster can be placed entirely on your private property, such as your driveway, a private parking lot, or a construction site within the property boundaries, you generally do not need a permit from the City and County of Denver. This is the simplest and most straightforward placement option.
Considerations for Private Property Placement:
Space: Ensure you have adequate space for the dumpster size you’ve chosen, along with enough clearance for our delivery truck to safely maneuver and drop off the container.
Surface: While our trucks and dumpsters are designed to be durable, heavy dumpsters can potentially cause damage to delicate driveways (e.g., asphalt during hot weather, or cracked concrete). We recommend placing plywood or boards down to protect your surface, especially if it’s new or susceptible to damage.
Accessibility: Make sure the area is clear of obstacles (vehicles, low-hanging wires, trees, sprinklers, etc.) for both delivery and pickup.
On Public Property / Right-of-Way (Permit REQUIRED):
If any part of the dumpster will be placed on public property, which includes streets, sidewalks, alleys, or public rights-of-way, then a permit is absolutely required by the City and County of Denver (Department of Transportation & Infrastructure – DOTI).
Denver’s Revocable Street Occupancy Permit (RSOP): For dumpsters placed in the public right-of-way, a specific permit called a Revocable Street Occupancy Permit (RSOP) is necessary.
Who Obtains the Permit? In Denver, the dumpster or container company (like Total Disposal) is generally responsible for obtaining this permit on your behalf. We have the necessary licenses and relationships with DOTI to apply for these permits.
What You Need to Know About Permits for Street Placement:
Advance Notice: Permits require processing time. While we can often expedite things, it’s best to allow at least 5 business days for permit processing. Last-minute requests for street placement may not be feasible.
Fees: There is a fee associated with obtaining a permit, and this cost will be passed on to you as part of your overall rental expense. The fee can vary depending on the duration of the permit and the type of street (e.g., residential vs. arterial).
Placement Rules: Strict rules govern where a dumpster can be placed on public property. These include:
Must be at least 20 feet from any corner, ramp, alley, or entrance.
Must fit within the parking lane.
Cannot impede sidewalks, tree lawns, travel lanes, fire hydrants, “No Parking” zones, or temporary loading zones.
Must have reflective tape or flashing lights for visibility, especially at night.
Cannot be placed in the right-of-way for more than 180 days within any consecutive 12-month period at a single address.
Metered Parking: If the dumpster will occupy metered parking spaces, additional arrangements and fees for those meters will be required as part of the permit.
HOA Rules: If you live in a Homeowners Association (HOA), even if the dumpster is on your private property, your HOA might have specific rules or require their own approval for temporary structures like dumpsters. Always check with your HOA beforehand.
Beyond Denver City Limits:
If your project is in a surrounding Denver metro area municipality (e.g., Arvada, Lakewood, Aurora, Westminster, Thornton, etc.), the permit requirements may differ. Some cities have similar public right-of-way permit requirements, while others are more lenient or have different processes.
Total Disposal’s Role:
When you call Total Disposal, let us know your exact placement intentions. We will guide you through the permit process for Denver proper, or advise you on the requirements for other municipalities. Our aim is to ensure your dumpster placement is fully compliant with local regulations, preventing fines or delays. Don’t risk a costly citation – let us help you navigate the permit landscape!
Question 5: How Much Does Dumpster Rental Cost in Denver
he cost of renting a roll-off dumpster in Denver can vary, but generally, you can expect prices to range from approximately $400 to $800+ for a standard rental period. It’s important to understand that dumpster rental pricing isn’t a one-size-fits-all number. Several key factors contribute to the final cost. At Total Disposal, we believe in transparent pricing, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Here are the primary factors that influence dumpster rental costs in the Denver area:
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Dumpster Size (Volume):
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This is typically the most significant factor. Larger dumpsters (30-yard, 40-yard) will inherently cost more than smaller ones (10-yard, 15-yard) because they offer greater capacity and require larger trucks for transport.
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Why it matters: You’re paying for the volume of waste you can dispose of. Choosing the right size (as discussed in Q1) is crucial to avoid overpaying for unused space or needing a second, more expensive pickup.
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Type and Weight of Debris:
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Debris Type: The type of material you’re disposing of impacts the cost due to varying disposal fees at local landfills and recycling facilities. For example:
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General Mixed Waste: This includes typical household junk, construction debris (wood, drywall), and mixed materials. This is usually the standard rate.
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Heavy Materials: Concrete, dirt, asphalt, bricks, and roofing shingles are significantly heavier. While they take up less volume, their weight incurs higher tipping fees at the landfill. For large quantities of these materials, we might recommend a smaller, specialized “heavy debris” dumpster, or there may be specific weight limits for mixed loads.
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Clean Loads: If you have a “clean load” consisting of a single, recyclable material (e.g., only clean concrete, only wood, only metal), sometimes special rates or recycling options might be available, which can be more cost-effective.
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Weight Limits & Overage Fees: Every dumpster size comes with a set weight limit included in the base rental price. This limit is measured in tons.
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Example: A 20-yard dumpster might come with a 2-ton (4,000 lbs) weight limit. If your debris weighs more than that, you will incur an overage fee for each additional ton (or fraction thereof). These fees typically range from $75-$100 per ton in the Denver area.
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How to avoid overage fees: Be as accurate as possible when estimating your debris weight. If you’re dealing with heavy materials, communicate this to us so we can advise on the best dumpster size and expected weight.
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Rental Period Duration:
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Our standard rental periods (e.g., 7-10 days) are included in the initial quote.
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Extensions: As mentioned in Q3, if you need the dumpster for a longer duration, daily extension fees will apply. The longer you keep the dumpster, the higher the total cost.
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Location and Delivery Fees:
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Distance: Our pricing for Denver and immediate surrounding areas is typically straightforward. However, if your project is located significantly further out from our service hub, a fuel surcharge or additional delivery/pickup fee might apply to cover transportation costs.
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Accessibility: While not a direct fee, complex delivery or pickup situations (e.g., extremely tight spaces, difficult terrain) might require more time from our drivers, which can sometimes indirectly affect pricing or service availability.
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Permit Fees (if applicable):
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As detailed in Q4, if your dumpster needs to be placed on public property (street, alley, sidewalk), a permit is required by the City and County of Denver. The cost of this permit will be added to your total rental price. Permit fees vary based on duration and location (e.g., metered parking spaces cost more).
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Disposal/Tipping Fees:
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A significant portion of your rental cost covers the “tipping fees” charged by landfills or recycling facilities to accept and process the waste. These fees are constantly fluctuating based on local regulations, operational costs, and market demand. Our quoted prices typically include these fees up to the specified weight limit.
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How Total Disposal Provides a Clear Quote:
When you contact us for a quote, we’ll ask you a few key questions to provide you with the most accurate and transparent pricing:
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What is your project address (to determine location and permit needs)?
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What type of project is it (e.g., bathroom remodel, garage cleanout, new construction)?
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What types of materials will you be disposing of (e.g., general trash, heavy debris like concrete, yard waste)?
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What is your estimated volume/weight of debris?
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How long do you anticipate needing the dumpster?
By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and budget effectively for your dumpster rental. At Total Disposal, we pride ourselves on competitive rates and no hidden fees. We’ll always provide a clear, upfront quote so you know exactly what to expect.
Ready to Get Started with Your Denver Project?
We hope this comprehensive breakdown of your top 5 dumpster rental questions has provided valuable insights and clarity. At Total Disposal, our mission is to make waste management simple, efficient, and responsible for all our clients, whether you’re a homeowner, a small business, or a large construction firm.
We’re committed to:
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Exceptional Customer Service: Our team is here to answer all your questions, guide you through the process, and ensure a seamless experience from booking to pickup.
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Timely Delivery and Pickup: We understand project deadlines are crucial. You can count on us to deliver and pick up your dumpster on schedule.
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Competitive Rates: We strive to offer the best value for dumpster rentals in the Denver area, with transparent pricing and no surprises.
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Responsible Disposal: We adhere to all local regulations and prioritize environmentally sound disposal practices, including recycling whenever possible.
Don’t let waste management be a headache for your next project. Let Total Disposal of Denver handle the heavy lifting.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and let’s get your project cleaned up! We look forward to being your trusted partner in waste solutions for the Mile High City.