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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 items (bags, bundles) for collection on your trash collection days.

Bags and large or bulky items must be light enough to be lifted by two people and small enough to fit in a garbage truck.

Remove sharp objects (nail, staples) that could 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

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

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: