There are several legal and potentially free ways to get rid of unwanted dirt after a yard or landscaping project. There are also online services that can connect you with people and companies near you willing to take your soil.
But, before you get ready to haul your dirt off, be sure to check for local regulatory laws on dumping dirt. You’ll need to contact your local city or county office to see which rules apply to you and your specific type of dirt (also known as “fill”). For example, in some locations, you’ll need a permit to dump the dirt.
Keep in mind that if your dirt contains things like asbestos, glass, plastics, metal, or hazardous materials, you may need to contact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for guidance. The EPA regulates the disposal of hazardous material, and if you dispose of it illegally, you could be subject to large fines and up to five years in prison.[1]
What We Recommend
For the most convenient dirt dumping options, as well as the highest chance of finding ways to do it for free, you’ll likely want to contact a local landscaping or construction company. These companies aren’t primarily in the dirt recycling business, so they aren’t necessarily looking to make money off people who need to get rid of some dirt. There are local companies like this in most regions of the U.S., and they are also the most likely to work with you to schedule drop-off.
Another good option is to use an online service like Clean-Fill-Wanted.com to connect you with individuals or companies looking for different types of dirt. These companies charge a small fee for their services — letting you list your dirt and contact potential takers — but they operate nationwide, so you can likely find a place near you where you can take your dirt.
The List
Below, we list the places where you can dump dirt — some of which are free, while others require registration or a fee. A few of the dirt disposal companies listed are removal services that pick up yard waste, and it’s worth noting that while this is likely the most convenient option, it will be the most costly. We’ve ordered the list starting with the best overall options.
Landscaping and Construction Companies
A local landscaping company or mulch supplier may be willing to accept your dirt for free. You can start with a Google search for “landscaping companies near me” and contact an organization to find out if it accepts dirt and what the process entails.
Some local recycling companies also accept dirt as a form of construction and demolition (or “C&D”) waste. The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) provides a C&D recycler locator to help you find such companies in your area.
Similarly, some construction sites might also be willing to accept dirt for free. In this case, you can search online for local construction companies or drive around to building sites and ask the foreman if they need the fill. This option is dependent on each location, so make sure you contact the company for details.
Dirt Disposal Companies
The following companies provide sites to dispose of dirt, connect you with local dirt disposal sites, or pick up unwanted dirt. Fees vary and keep in mind that not every company will accept all kinds of dirt.
Clean-Fill-Wanted.com
Locations: Nationwide[2]
Accepted types of dirt: Clean fill — dirt that’s acceptable for construction, landscaping, and leveling[3]
Other restrictions: Vary by location[2]
Cost: Subscriptions start at $9 per month or about $70 per year to list fill[4]
Find out more
Junk King
Locations: Most states, excluding Arkansas, Delaware, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming[5]
Accepted types of dirt: All types[6]
Other restrictions: Won’t accept hazardous waste[6]
Cost: Varies; get a free estimate online or call (888) 888-5865[7]
Find out more
Waste Management
Locations: Nationwide[8]
Accepted types of dirt: Construction and demolition recycling, which includes landscaping materials[8]
Other restrictions: Must request a Bagster bag, which holds up to one cubic yard of dirt; doesn’t accept other types of yard waste like mulch or sod[8]
Cost: About $30 for the Bagster bag;[9][10][11] pick-up varies but is typically around $130 to $150[12]
Find out more
DirtGeo (formerly Dirt Monkey)
Locations: Nationwide[13]
Accepted types of dirt: All types, depending on need[14]
Other restrictions: You must be a construction, excavating, or landscaping company.[15] Your listing should include how much dirt you have, the type of fill, location, and contact information.[14]
Cost: There are no membership or registration fees.[15]
Find out more
Pacific Topsoils
Locations: Pacific Northwestern U.S.[16]
Accepted types of dirt: Dry or wet uncontaminated soil[17]
Other restrictions: Doesn’t accept yard waste that has begun composting, is hazardous, or is contaminated with other materials[17]
Cost: Recycling fees vary by location; pickup fees range from $150 to $250[18]
Find out more
Other Ways to Get Rid of Dirt
If you’re having a hard time getting rid of your dirt, there are a few other things you can try, including:
Contacting your local waste management company: Some waste management companies will haul your dirt for free or for a fee.
Using your dirt for another yard project: Consider a garden, raised garden beds, leveling out a slope, etc.
Advertising your dirt online: Post your dirt on Craigslist or Freecycle. You can also try posting on a local Facebook buy/sell/trade group.
Using your local network: Ask neighbors or nearby gardeners and/or farmers if they would like to take some extra dirt off your hands.
Pacific Topsoils customer service (800) 884-7645[↩]
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2 comments
Cameron | 6 years ago
DirtMonkey.net is now DirtGeo.com. Completely redesigned with a new and improved map and listing process. Check it out! Previous users of Dirt Monkey should be able to use their same credentials to log on. It’s free to sign up. Thanks
First Quarter Finance | Lindsey Desmet| 6 years ago
Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Cameron! We have updated our article to reflect this change.
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