Managing construction debris in Fort Lauderdale calls for a clear understanding of city regulations and proper waste handling methods. Whether you’re revamping a waterfront property in Las Olas Isles or leading a commercial renovation downtown, you’ll likely need to discard materials like drywall, shingles, bricks, dirt and rocks, sand, concrete, tile & flooring, insulation, PVC pipes, and metal scraps. Fort Lauderdale offers a range of disposal options—from roll-off dumpster rentals to professional haulers and designated Broward County drop-off sites. This guide will help you choose the most practical and compliant method to keep your construction project running smoothly.
Your Construction Debris Disposal Options in Fort Lauderdale
From tear-outs in Victoria Park to new builds in Coral Ridge, construction projects in Fort Lauderdale often leave behind a wide mix of waste—much of which can’t go in your regular trash bin. Materials like drywall, shingles, bricks, dirt and rocks, sand, concrete, tile & flooring, insulation, PVC pipes, and metal scraps must be handled responsibly and in accordance with local regulations. Here are your top disposal options throughout Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.
1. Use City or County Drop-Off Locations for Small Loads
The City of Fort Lauderdale offers bulk trash pickup for residential addresses; however, construction and demolition (C&D) debris is not accepted through regular curbside services. For small DIY projects, homeowners can bring debris to Broward County’s Residential Drop-Off Centers (RDOCs), such as the one in Davie or Pompano Beach, which accept certain materials in limited quantities.
You must provide a valid ID and recent utility bill to prove Broward residency.
Tips:
Not all centers accept the same materials—check in advance
Separate debris into recyclables (e.g., metal) and landfill waste
Contractor or commercial loads are not allowed
Pros:
✔️ Free for eligible residents
✔️ Nearby facilities across Broward County
✔️ Great for minor home improvement waste
Cons:
❌ Construction debris is banned from curbside pickup
❌ Load size limits apply
❌ Residents only—no commercial or contractor use
2. Rent a Roll-Off Dumpster for Construction Waste
For more extensive renovations or demolition projects, a roll-off dumpster rental is your most efficient solution. Whether you’re ripping up tile, breaking up concrete, or discarding roofing shingles, dumpsters can handle heavy and high-volume waste with ease.
Local Dumpster Providers:
Bin There Dump That Southeast Florida Dumpster Rentals
Tel: 954-391-9975
Elgisn Dumpsters Fort Luderdale
Tel: (954) 338-4406
Tips:
Use a 10-yard dumpster for heavy debris like bricks or concrete
Confirm with your provider whether you need a city permit for street placement
Avoid overloading past the rim—weight overages may incur fees
Pros:
✔️ Load debris at your own pace
✔️ Available for any project size
✔️ Delivered and hauled away professionally
Cons:
❌ Space required for placement
❌ Permits may be required on public property
❌ Cost varies depending on size and duration
3. Hire a Licensed Construction Debris Hauler
If you’d rather not load or haul debris yourself, consider hiring a Fort Lauderdale-based debris removal service. Companies like Junk Boss, College HUNKS Hauling Junk, and 1-800-GOT-JUNK serve the area and specialize in removing debris like drywall, insulation, PVC pipes, and metal scraps directly from your job site.
This option is ideal for quick turnarounds or when physical labor isn’t feasible.
Local Junk Haulers:
Junk King Fort Lauderdale
881 NE 30th St, Oakland Park, FL 33334, United States
Tel: 954-514-9333
NICK’S JUNK REMOVAL FORT LAUDERDALE
3901 W Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, United States
Tel: 954-543-1804
Tips:
Ask whether pricing is based on truck space or weight
Verify licensing and insurance
Many providers also recycle or donate materials when possible
Pros:
✔️ No lifting or hauling on your part
✔️ Quick and convenient, even for hard-to-reach sites
✔️ Often includes cleanup
Cons:
❌ More expensive than DIY options
❌ Limited to available scheduling
❌ Might not handle all material types
4. Recycle or Reuse Eligible Construction Materials
Many construction materials can be diverted from landfills by recycling or donating them. Fort Lauderdale is home to several recycling centers that accept concrete, scrap metal, roof tiles, and more. Additionally, items like flooring, cabinets, and fixtures may be donated to local Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations or other salvage programs.
Check with providers like Sun Recycling or Recycle America for material-specific guidelines.
Tips:
Sort and bundle items to simplify the process
Verify that materials are clean and undamaged if donating
Consider pickup options for large donations
Pros:
✔️ Environmentally responsible
✔️ Supports local reuse and housing projects
✔️ Potential tax deduction for donations
Cons:
❌ Not all debris is eligible
❌ Requires organization and transportation
❌ Limited acceptance hours and capacity
5. Take Debris to a Local Transfer Station or Landfill
If you have a trailer or truck, you can take construction debris directly to a Broward County landfill or transfer station. The Wheelabrator South Broward Transfer Station and Central Disposal Sanitary Landfill accept a broad range of construction waste—including bricks, sand, shingles, and dirt and rocks.
Local facilities:
Broward County Landfill
7101 SW 205th Ave, Pembroke Pines, FL 33029, United States
Tel: 954-357-5329
Disposal is priced based on load weight and type, and safety regulations apply on-site.
Tips:
Bring gloves and tie down your load properly
Expect to pay per ton or cubic yard
Review material restrictions before you arrive
Pros:
✔️ Immediate and direct disposal
✔️ Accepts most types of C&D debris
✔️ Ideal for large, mixed-material loads
Cons:
❌ Requires transportation and labor
❌ Fees vary depending on load
❌ Can be time-consuming for repeated trips
Choosing the Right Construction Debris Disposal Method for Your Project
Disposing of construction debris in Fort Lauderdale depends on several factors—project size, debris volume, available equipment, and whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor. The table below compares the most common options across the city and greater Broward County to help you choose the right method for your cleanup.
| Disposal Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Broward County Drop-Off Centers |
– Free for residential use with valid ID – Convenient for small home improvement jobs – Locations in Davie and Pompano Beach |
– Not available for contractors or businesses – Load size and type restrictions – You must transport the debris yourself |
| Roll-Off Dumpster Rental |
– Ideal for larger projects and renovations – Drop-off and pickup included – Handles heavy and bulky materials like tile and concrete |
– Space required for container placement – Street placement may require city permit – Additional fees for overweight or prohibited materials |
| Licensed Junk Hauler |
– No physical labor required – Fast, scheduled removal – Common for projects in tight spaces like condos or gated areas |
– Higher cost per cubic yard – Requires scheduling ahead of time – Load limits may apply |
| Recycle or Donate Materials |
– Eco-friendly disposal solution – May benefit nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Can reduce landfill volume and qualify for tax deductions |
– Only clean, usable items accepted – Requires sorting and drop-off – Limited pickup options |
| Landfill or Transfer Station (e.g. Wheelabrator) |
– Open to both residential and commercial use – Accepts almost all construction debris types – No scheduling necessary |
– Requires a truck or trailer – Pay-by-weight or load size – Physically demanding and time-consuming |
Local Guidelines for Construction Waste Disposal in Fort Lauderdale & Broward County
If you’re managing a renovation near Las Olas or a teardown in Coral Ridge, understanding how to legally dispose of construction debris in Fort Lauderdale is essential. The City of Fort Lauderdale and Broward County Waste and Recycling Services have clear rules on what you can toss, where to take it, and when permits are needed. Here’s what you need to know before renting a dumpster or loading a trailer.
Accepted Construction Debris
Most standard construction and demolition (C&D) materials are accepted at Broward County disposal and recycling facilities, as well as through licensed roll-off dumpster services in the area. Approved debris includes:
Drywall and sheetrock
Untreated wood and lumber
Bricks, blocks, and pavers
Concrete and cement
Asphalt shingles and tar paper
Non-asbestos insulation
Dirt, sand, and gravel
Ceramic tile and flooring
Clean scrap metal, rebar, aluminum, and PVC
Approved materials may be delivered to locations like:
Waste Management Central Disposal Facility (1601 W. Copans Rd., Pompano Beach)
Wheelabrator South Broward Transfer Station (4400 S. State Rd. 7, Davie)
Always verify hours and accepted materials before arrival, especially if you’re hauling from a job site.
Prohibited or Restricted Materials
Broward County facilities do not accept hazardous or restricted items mixed with C&D debris. The following materials require special handling:
Pressure-treated or painted wood (check with facility first)
Paints, varnishes, adhesives, and other hazardous chemicals
Electronic waste (TVs, monitors, printers, computers)
Appliances (e.g., refrigerators, ovens, HVAC units)
Asbestos-containing materials
Gasoline, motor oil, and automotive fluids
Tires and vehicle batteries
Propane tanks or compressed gas cylinders
Hazardous materials should be delivered to a Broward County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event or to the nearest designated facility. Visit broward.org/waste or call 954-765-4999 for site details and restrictions.
Permits for Dumpster Placement
If you plan to rent a roll-off dumpster in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll need to follow city regulations regarding placement:
On Private Property (e.g., driveway): No permit is typically required.
On Public Property (e.g., city street, sidewalk, or right-of-way): A Right-of-Way Permit may be required through the City of Fort Lauderdale Building Services Division or Public Works.
Permit needs depend on:
Dumpster size and length of rental
Street or pedestrian obstruction
Proximity to schools, intersections, or active traffic zones
Most dumpster rental providers familiar with Fort Lauderdale codes can help secure any necessary permits or provide guidance on compliance.