Can you put pressure-treated wood in a dumpster?

Covers: Pressure-treated wood (decks, fences)

Usually yes

Short answer: Usually yes. Treated deck and fence lumber normally goes in as regular C&D debris. Never burn it.

Why

EPA says homeowners can usually dispose of CCA-treated wood with ordinary trash (municipal solid waste), but state and local governments may have specific rules. Massachusetts bans treated and untreated wood from landfills.

What to do with it instead

Check with your local waste program, and don't burn it or mulch it.

What changes by location

state: MA wood ban; FL has CCA-specific guidance (NERC)

Sources

EPA - Chromated Arsenicals (CCA): disposing of treated wood
MassDEP Waste Disposal Bans
Dumpsters.com - Accepted Items

Checked October 2026. Rules change; your hauler's prohibited-items list is the final word.

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