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Construction Debris

DIY Projects

A Do-It-Yourself (DIY) construction project is one that is small in scale and done without the help of professionals, like hired workers or a contractor.

For DIY residential/home improvement projects, you can set out up to six large items on your collection day.

Large or bulky items – like cabinetry, drywall, siding, sinks, toilets, and tubs – must be light enough to be lifted by two people and small enough to fit into a garbage truck. Remove exposed nails and other sharp objects that might cause injury when handled.

For curbside collection, set out:

  • Metal and rigid plastic items the night before your recycling collection day
  • Non-recyclable items the night before your trash collection day

Some appliances and harmful household and gardening products may require special handling.

For large projects generating a large amount of waste, arrange for a dumpster through a private trash removal service.

Treated Wood and Flooring

Bundle and securely tie any treated wood or flooring that does not fit inside a bin.

Treated wood – like lumber, particle board, plywood, and other wood composites – is not compostable and should be disposed of as trash. Vinyl and laminate flooring and tiles should also be disposed of as trash.

Learn more about disposing of rugs and carpeting.

Professional Construction Projects

Construction and demolition waste generated by professional contractors cannot be discarded as residential garbage.

The contractor or resident must arrange for a dumpster through a private trash removal service.

Private contractors should arrange for disposal of debris like heaters, sinks, and tubs.

The Business Integrity Commission (BIC) certifies waste haulers in NYC and maintains a list of all registered haulers approved to remove construction and demolition waste.

Asbestos

Asbestos is hazardous waste and should NEVER be disposed of with trash or recycling. For handling, storage, and disposal of asbestos or items containing asbestos, contact a hazardous material or chemical waste disposal company.

Deconstruction and Donation

Unlike demolition, deconstruction is the careful dismantling of buildings to preserve materials for reuse and recycling. The benefits of deconstruction include job creation, waste diversion, energy conservation, and historical preservation.

Resources for reusing and exchanging building materials: