What to bring to the dump
Bring a photo ID, a utility bill with the same address, a tarp over your load and the right form of payment. Forgetting any one of these is the most common reason people get turned away.
Checklist
- Photo ID. Usually a Texas driver's license or state ID with your current address.
- Proof of address. Most free city programs want a recent water or utility bill (some accept a lease) with the same address as your ID.
- A tarp and straps. Uncovered loads are dangerous, and some landfills charge extra or refuse them.
- Payment. Some sites take cards only (no cash) and others take only cash or check. Check the listing first.
- A sorted load. Keep tires, appliances, brush and scrap metal separate. They often go to different areas or have their own prices.
- Gloves and closed shoes. You'll usually unload by hand.
Rules in Texas's biggest cities
| City | What to show | Vehicle and load limits | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | Texas photo ID + City of Houston utility bill (last 2 months) or lease | Vehicles up to 2 tons; trailers up to 16 ft; no contractors | 4 a month |
| San Antonio | Photo ID + recent CPS Energy bill showing the Environmental Fee | Truck loads no higher than the wheel fenders; up to 4 cubic yards | Not stated |
| Dallas | Driver's license with a Dallas address, or license + current Dallas water bill | Free in a car, pickup or trailer under 15 ft | Not stated |
| Fort Worth | Water bill from last 6 months showing sanitation charges + matching license | Single-axle trailers up to 8 x 6 ft, 3 ft high; no box trucks | Up to 5 cubic yards of trash a month |
| El Paso | City pass + current water bill + ID with the same address | Single-axle trailers up to 8 ft | 4 a month |
| Austin | Appointment + proof of Austin or Travis County residence | Not stated | By appointment |
| Mesquite | Texas license with a Mesquite address + matching utility bill | Not stated | 1 a month (recycling unlimited) |
What you usually can't bring
- Paint, chemicals, pesticides and motor oil at most trash sites. Take them to a household hazardous waste center, such as Houston's Environmental Service Centers, San Antonio's Culebra center or Fort Worth's Environmental Collection Center.
- Propane tanks, explosives and ammunition.
- Large numbers of tires. Most sites limit you to about 4 to 6 car tires.
- Contractor or business waste at free city sites.
- Household garbage at some bulky-item centers, including Houston's drop-off centers and San Antonio's bulky waste centers.