To dispose of concrete, you should prioritize concrete recycling by taking it to a specialized C&D (construction and demolition) recycling center, donating reusable pieces to landscaping companies, or hiring a full-service junk removal company like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? to handle the heavy lifting and responsible disposal for you.
At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we’ve seen firsthand how much heavy debris can pile up during a home renovation. In fact, concrete is one of the most common materials we encounter, and because it is exceptionally heavy and durable, it shouldn't just be tossed into a landfill. Since 1989, we have been committed to environmental sustainability, ensuring that we recycle concrete and other materials whenever possible. By diverting concrete waste from landfills to specialized recycling facilities, we help turn concrete rubble into new roads and foundations, keeping your neighborhood clean and green.
Where to dispose of concrete
Disposing of concrete the right way starts with understanding that this material is far too valuable to be treated as simple concrete trash. When you choose to recycle concrete, you reduce the demand for new gravel and stone mining. Diverting this heavy material from landfills also saves precious space and reduces the carbon footprint associated with new construction.
If you are wondering where to dispose of concrete, there are several eco-friendly and practical options available, depending on the condition of your concrete debris.
List for free pickup online
One of the easiest ways to get rid of concrete is to offer it for free on local community boards like Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, or Craigslist. Many DIYers search for used concrete blocks or concrete chunks for backyard projects, such as building retaining walls or raised garden beds.
Donate reusable concrete
If you have concrete pavers, concrete blocks, or even large pieces of broken concrete that are still in good shape, consider donating them. Local community gardens or non-profit building organizations often accept these items to help with structural projects.
Contact professionals who can reuse it
Many local businesses are often in need of concrete rubble disposal.
- Landscaping company: Professionals often use old concrete chunks as a base layer for high-end hardscaping or as "urbanite" for decorative garden walls.
- Building supplies retailer: Some local retailers or masonry yards may accept concrete debris removal if the material is clean and can be resold as crushed fill.
Drop it off at a local recycling center
The most common method for concrete waste disposal is taking it to a dedicated concrete recycling facility. These centers use the concrete recycling process to crush the material into aggregate, which is then reused in new construction projects.
Reuse it yourself
Before searching for where to dump concrete, see if you can use it on your own property. Reusing concrete as a base for a new shed, a garden path, or drainage filler is an excellent way to save money and keep waste out of the system.
Take it to a landfill (last resort)
While a concrete landfill exists, it should be your last option. Most landfills charge a high concrete disposal cost per ton because of the weight, and it offers no environmental benefit compared to recycling.
Rent a dumpster or hauler
For large-scale residential concrete removal, you can rent a specialized "low-boy" dumpster. However, be aware of weight limits, as hauling concrete is significantly more expensive than hauling standard household junk due to the density of the material.
Hire a junk removal company
If you want a "hands-off" experience, a concrete junk removal service is the way to go. When you choose 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, our friendly truck teams handle the concrete pick up and all the heavy lifting. We ensure your concrete waste is taken to the right facility so you don’t have to worry about how to get rid of old concrete.
Can concrete be reused?
Yes, many types of concrete can be reused, and reusing concrete is often better than recycling it because it requires zero industrial processing. When you look at your pile of concrete debris, you might see a mess, but a landscaper sees "urbanite."
Can concrete be reused? Absolutely. Old concrete chunks can be stacked to create beautiful, rustic retaining walls. Smaller concrete chunks can be used as a sturdy sub-base for a new driveway or patio. If you have concrete bricks, they can be cleaned and repurposed for garden edging or fire pits. Even cinder blocks can be transformed into outdoor seating or planters.
Before you look into how to remove concrete permanently, consider whether the concrete blocks could serve a new purpose in your backyard.
How to safely remove concrete waste, step by step
If you’ve decided on removing concrete driveway sections or a patio yourself, follow these steps to ensure a safe and efficient concrete removal process.
- Assess and pre-sort the concrete waste: Not all concrete debris is the same. Separate your concrete blocks, bricks, and pavers from standard concrete rubble. Sorting your concrete waste beforehand can ease disposal and might even save you money, as many recycling centers offer lower rates for "clean" concrete (concrete not mixed with dirt, wood, or trash).
- Investigate disposal regulations: Before you start hauling concrete, check your local municipal guidelines. In the U.S., the EPA regulates C&D (Construction and Demolition) waste, while in Canada, provincial regulations dictate how concrete waste management is handled. Some areas require you to prove the material was recycled.
- Gather the right tools: How to dispose of concrete starts with breaking it down. You’ll need a sledgehammer or a jackhammer for larger slabs, along with heavy-duty gloves, eye protection, and steel-toed boots.
- Arrange for concrete haul away: Once the concrete is broken into manageable concrete chunks, decide if you are hauling concrete yourself or if you need a concrete pickup service.
