Dumpster Rentals in Philadelphia County PA

The are various factors to consider when selecting the right dumpster for your project - from size to materials to space needed. View our dumpster selection tips below to ensure your project runs smoothly!

Choose the Right Size

Select a dumpster that is the right size for your project. Make sure it is large enough to fit all of your waste, and that debris does not go above the rim. You will always save money by having the right size dumpster for your project from the beginning, rather than needing two smaller ones.

Examine your Materials

Determine what materials you are trying to dispose of. State and local laws do not permit a certain mix of materials to be thrown out together, as it is harmful to the environment. If you have a variety of different materials, you may require smaller dumpsters in order to prevent contamination fees. Some materials that typically require their own dumpster are dirt, yard waste, and concrete or brick. Feel free to contact Sourgum Waste if you are having trouble deciding which materials cannot be mixed or thrown out together.

In addition, never put any hazardous materials in a dumpster, as it harms both people and the environment. This includes asbestos, wet paints, electronics, batteries, fuels, propane tanks, and more. Reach out to us if you are unsure or if you need help disposing of hazardous waste.

Sourgum Waste can also help if you need to haul away odd materials such as telephone poles, railroad tires, and more. Fill out our roll-off dumpster quote form, and we will respond with a free quote within 24 hours.

Dumpster Placements

We deliver dumpsters on roll-off trucks, where the dumpster is slowly rolled from the back of the truck onto the ground. In order for it to be delivered, the truck needs a space that is a bit more than double the length of the dumpster. If you feel like your space may be too narrow or have any other concerns, please contact us and we will help you decide the proper size for you.

Do I Need a Dumpster Permit in Philadelphia County

It is important to note that Philadelphia County requires a one-time license to be obtained for all dumpsters that are permanently placed on private property. If the dumpster is for temporary use at your residence a permit is NOT required. The application can be found in the Department of Licenses and Inspections. In addition, an annual, renewable license must be obtained for all dumpsters that are located in the public right-of-way. Fees differ for each type and size of dumpster. And for temporary construction dumpsters that are in the public right-of-way, you need to acquire a special permit. You can learn more about this by calling the Streets Department Permit Unit.

Philadelphia County’s Recycling Initiative

Philadelphia Country strongly encourages its residents to recycle materials in a correct manner. It not only keeps the environment and communities clean and minimizes pollution and litter, but those who recycle incorrectly may be subject to SWEEP fines, also known as the Streets & Walkways Education and Enforcement Program. The initiative seeks to educate residents about the importance of keeping streets clean while supporting and bolstering efforts to maintain sanitation.

What items can be recycled?

Philadelphia County has created a wide range of infographics and charts to promote accurate recycling practices. According to Philadelphia Streets, these items are allowed to be recycled and are approved for curbside pickup:

• Plastic Bottles and Jars

• Newspapers, Magazines, & Brochures

• Paperback Books

• Junk mail, Envelopes, Scrap Paper, and Paper Bags

• Milk, Juice, Wine, and Soup Cartons

• Aluminum, Steel, and Tin Cans

• Aluminum Baking Dishes

• Empty Paint and Aerosol Cans

• Glass Bottles and Jars

• Dry & Clean Cardboard Boxes

• Paper Towel Rolls

• Egg Cartons

Plastics, cartons, metals, and glass should be emptied and rinsed. Plastic, metal, and glass lids and caps are allowed. Paper should be removed from plastic sleeves/bags. Remove shipping & Packing materials from cardboard.

What materials are NOT allowed to be recycled?

According to the Philadelphia County website, these items are not approved for recycling:

• Plastic Bags

• Styrofoam

• Disposable Plates, Cups, and Takeout Containers

• Greasy/Food-spoiled Paper & Cardboard

• Light Bulbs

• VHS/Audio Cassette Tapes

• Garden Hoses

• Needles and Syringes

• Propane Tanks

• Pots and Pans

How can I dispose of Hazardous Waste in Philadelphia County?

In order to dispose of hazardous waste, residents need to register for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events (HHW Events). You can sign up for a drop-off event on Philadelphia County’s registration site, and learn more about specific dates, times, and locations.

A wide range of materials is accepted at HHW events. Here are a few items that are allowed:

• Paint and Related Materials (Paint Thinner, Varnish, Paint Stripper)

• Pesticides, Chemical Fertilizers, and Swimming Pool Chemicals

• Fire Extinguishers, Aerosol cans

• Bathroom, Tile, and Toilet Bowl Cleaner

• Oven and Drain Cleaner

• Cleaning Solvents

• Automotive Products (Used motor oil, antifreeze, lead-acid batteries)

• Flammable Materials – Kerosene, Old gasoline

• Household batteries, mercury, PCBs, Moth Balls, and More

The Philadelphia County website contains a full list of hazardous materials that can be accepted at HHW events. Currently, they do not accept computer electronics and televisions, which must be brought to Sanitation Convenience Centers.