Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about getting a container from Zero Waste? Check out some of the most common ones below. Can’t find what you need? Click the button below and ask away!
Call: (603) 228-6900
We’re happy to answer any questions you have.
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions from our customers. If you don’t find what you need here, please don’t hesitate to give us a call, or click below to send us an email.
What size container do I need?
Choosing the size container you need depends on several factors, including how many bags you dispose of per week, as well as the type of waste. To get started, check out our Container Dimensions page to get an idea of the size of each dumpster. If that doesn’t help, please reach out to our experienced staff to help you determine the best size and service schedule.
Does it matter where I place my dumpster?
In short, yes it does. Front load dumpsters (commercial containers) need to be placed on a hard, flat surface, in an area free of low-hanging wires, tree limbs, etc that can get in the way of emptying the container. A minimum of 20 feet of overhead clearance is generally acceptable. In addition, there needs to be significant space for the truck to maneuver for service. If you’re unsure if your desired location will work, give us a call!
Roll Off (Construction) Containers also need clearance for delivery and removal, and should be free of low-hanging wires and tree limbs. In addition, these containers should not be placed on soft ground, over septic systems, irrigation systems, or other underground plumbing. You’ll also want to consult with us if your driveway has a slant or slope to it. Your desired location may still work, but you’ll want to make sure beforehand. An empty container may sit perfectly fine, but the added weight from the debris could cause it to slide.
Will a roll off (construction) container damage my driveway?
Most of the time, you will be fine placing a roll off in your driveway. However, please keep in mind that the container itself weighs a couple ton, and then you are going to put another couple ton of material in it. Newer driveways, and those hot from the summer sun can be damaged by the wheels on the container. If you have concerns, please give the delivery driver boards to place under the wheels to disburse the weight. While some indentation may still be possible, this will greatly help.
If your driveway is older, cracked, or already damaged, the weight of the delivery truck and/or the container may cause additional damage. Please be aware of this prior to having one placed on your driveway. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at (603) 228-6900 to discuss your specific needs.
Are there things I can't put in my dumpster?
There are items that cannot be placed in your commercial dumpster or roll off container. NO liquids should be placed into these containers. Because these containers are meant to drain water (so they don’t hold rain), they will leak if you dispose of liquids. Additionally, many liquids such as liquid paint, gasoline, and solvents are toxic and there prohibited. Other items prohibited from your container include the following.
- Electronics
- Refrigerators, AC units, and other items containing freon
- Tires
- Mattresses
- Pesticides
- Asbestos, and any toxic substances
- Household hazardous waste
If you need to dispose of any of these items, please contact us and we will work out arrangements with you.
What happens if I have extra material that will overflow my dumpster?
Your material needs to fit within the confines of the dumpster, with the lid shut. Containers that have material heaped over the top, or material on the ground, are subject to additional charges. Please feel free to give us a call to discuss your overage charges, or to see if you are in a region where additional pickups are available.
Can I build an enclosure around my dumpster?
For ease of access to your container, it is preferred if your dumpster is not fully enclosed. However, if you choose to build an enclosure, there are certain guidelines you need to follow so that our trucks can service the container(s) without issue. Please contact us BEFORE building your enclosure so we can discuss all requirements with you.