Make three groups before pickup: items to keep, accepted dry debris and items that need a specialized disposal path. Mixing chemicals or batteries into ordinary debris can stop a load at the last minute.
Useful sorting table
| Group | Examples | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Dry debris | Flattened boxes, dismantled particleboard, carpet remnants | Bundle or bag sharp-free material. |
| Review first | Heavy construction material, electronics, appliances | List and photograph it for the estimate. |
| Special handling | Paint, solvents, fuel, propane, unknown liquids | Use the responsible county program or another approved handler. |
Lee County directs household chemicals to its Topaz Court facility and warns residents not to place them in household trash or recycling. Keep those items upright and separate while you confirm current acceptance rules.
Make the load safer
- Flatten clean cardboard.
- Remove protruding screws or keep panels separate for review.
- Use sturdy bags for light debris; do not overload them.
- Photograph dense or heavy material because weight can affect the estimate.
Review storage unit debris removal, then call with the item list and facility access details.
Sources: This guide uses the relevant public guidance recorded in the project’s private sources file, including Lee County Solid Waste, the U.S. EPA, OSHA or the Federal Trade Commission as applicable.