Every roof replacement generates a surprising amount of waste. When your roofing contractor tears off the old shingles, underlayment, flashing, and damaged decking, all of that material has to go somewhere. For most residential roofing projects in Pinellas County, that somewhere is a roll-off dumpster parked in your driveway or on the street in front of your house.
If your contractor is handling the entire project (which is typical), the dumpster rental is usually included in their quote and they handle the logistics. But understanding how dumpster sizing, weight limits, and costs work helps you evaluate quotes, spot hidden charges, and make informed decisions if you are managing any part of the disposal yourself.
This guide covers everything you need to know about roofing dumpster rentals in Pinellas County: how to choose the right size, what it costs in 2026, why roofing debris is so much heavier than you expect, where to put the dumpster, what permits you might need, and how professional roofers typically handle the disposal process.
Why Roofing Dumpsters Are Different
A roofing dumpster is not fundamentally different from any other roll-off dumpster. It is the same steel container delivered on the same truck. What makes roofing projects unique is the weight of the debris. Asphalt shingles are one of the heaviest types of construction waste, and this weight factor drives most of the decisions around dumpster sizing, pricing, and logistics.
The Weight Problem: Shingles Are Heavy
Most people are surprised by how much old roofing material weighs. Here is why shingles create such a heavy load:
- A single bundle of architectural shingles weighs 60 to 80 pounds
- Three bundles cover one roofing square (100 square feet), so one square of shingles weighs 180 to 240 pounds
- A typical 2,000 square foot roof (20 squares) produces 3,600 to 4,800 pounds of shingle waste alone
- Add underlayment, nails, flashing, drip edge, and damaged decking, and the total easily reaches 4,000 to 6,000 pounds
- A two-layer tear-off (removing two layers of old shingles) can generate 7,000 to 10,000+ pounds of debris
For context, a 20-yard dumpster filled with general household junk might weigh 3,000 to 4,000 pounds. That same dumpster filled with old shingles can weigh 6,000 to 8,000 pounds. The volume might not look that different, but the scale tells a very different story. This is why weight limits, not volume, are usually the constraining factor for roofing dumpsters.
What Goes in a Roofing Dumpster
A roofing dumpster typically accepts all of the following materials from a roof tear-off:
- Old asphalt shingles (3-tab and architectural)
- Underlayment (felt paper or synthetic)
- Metal flashing and drip edge
- Roofing nails and fasteners
- Damaged plywood or OSB roof decking
- Old ridge vent material
- Pipe boots and vent flashing
- Old caulk and sealant tubes
- Packaging materials from new roofing products
Materials that should NOT go in a roofing dumpster include hazardous waste, paint, solvents, asbestos-containing materials (some very old roofs may contain asbestos), batteries, and electronics. If your home was built before 1980 and has never been re-roofed, discuss asbestos testing with your contractor before any tear-off begins, as asbestos-containing roofing requires special handling and disposal.
Dumpster Sizes for Roofing Projects
Roll-off dumpsters come in several standard sizes, measured in cubic yards of volume. The three sizes most commonly used for residential roofing projects in Pinellas County are 10-yard, 20-yard, and 30-yard containers. Here is how they compare:
| Dumpster Size | Dimensions (approx.) | Best For | Weight Limit | Rental Cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-yard | 12 ft x 8 ft x 3.5 ft | Small roofs under 1,500 sq ft, single layer | 2 to 3 tons | $300 to $400 |
| 20-yard | 22 ft x 8 ft x 4.5 ft | Most single-story homes, single-layer tear-off | 3 to 4 tons | $375 to $500 |
| 30-yard | 22 ft x 8 ft x 6 ft | Larger homes, multi-layer tear-offs, tile roofs | 4 to 5 tons | $450 to $600 |
10-Yard Dumpster
The 10-yard dumpster is the smallest option commonly available and works for limited roofing projects. At roughly 12 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 3.5 feet tall, it holds 10 cubic yards of material. For roofing, the typical weight limit of 2 to 3 tons (4,000 to 6,000 pounds) is the real constraint.
When to choose a 10-yard:
- Small roof areas under 1,500 square feet (15 squares)
- Single-layer shingle removal only
- Partial roof repairs or re-roofing one slope
- Tight driveway space that cannot accommodate a larger container
- Garage roofs, porches, or additions
The 10-yard is the most budget-friendly option but also the most likely to hit its weight limit before it looks full. A single-layer tear-off on a 1,500 square foot roof can produce 2,700 to 3,600 pounds of shingle debris alone. Once you add underlayment and other materials, you are pushing the 3-ton limit on a 10-yard container. If there is any chance your project might exceed these limits, sizing up to a 20-yard is the safer choice.
20-Yard Dumpster
The 20-yard dumpster is the workhorse of residential roofing projects and the most commonly rented size for roof replacements in Pinellas County. At approximately 22 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4.5 feet tall, it provides double the volume of a 10-yard with a typical weight allowance of 3 to 4 tons (6,000 to 8,000 pounds).
When to choose a 20-yard:
- Single-layer tear-off on homes up to 2,500 square feet (25 squares)
- Most standard single-story Florida homes
- Projects where the existing roof has one layer of shingles in fair condition
- When your driveway can accommodate a 22-foot container
For a typical Pinellas County home with a 2,000 square foot roof and a single layer of architectural shingles, a 20-yard dumpster with a 4-ton weight limit should accommodate all tear-off debris with some margin. This is the sweet spot for most residential roofing projects: big enough to handle the job, small enough to fit in most driveways, and priced at the volume discount point where the per-ton cost is most favorable.
30-Yard Dumpster
The 30-yard dumpster is the largest size commonly used for residential roofing. At 22 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 6 feet tall, it provides 50% more volume than a 20-yard with weight limits typically in the 4 to 5 ton range (8,000 to 10,000 pounds).
When to choose a 30-yard:
- Two-layer shingle tear-offs (double the debris volume and weight)
- Larger homes over 2,500 square feet
- Tile roof removals (concrete and clay tiles are extremely heavy)
- Projects with significant decking replacement
- Multi-structure projects (main house plus garage or pool house)
The 30-yard is essential for two-layer tear-offs. When your roof has been re-covered over an existing layer, both layers must be removed during a full replacement. That doubles the shingle weight and often pushes past the limits of a 20-yard container. For a 2,000 square foot roof with two layers of architectural shingles, expect 7,000 to 9,500 pounds of shingle debris alone, which requires the 4 to 5 ton capacity of a 30-yard.
Roofing Dumpster Cost Breakdown (2026)
Dumpster rental pricing in Pinellas County includes several components. Understanding each one helps you compare quotes accurately and avoid surprise charges.
What Is Included in the Base Price
The base rental price ($300 to $600 depending on size) typically includes:
- Delivery and pickup: The cost of delivering the empty dumpster to your location and picking up the full one
- Rental period: Usually 3 to 7 days (varies by company)
- Disposal fees: Processing and dumping the contents at a landfill or transfer station, up to the included weight allowance
- Weight allowance: Most rental agreements include a certain tonnage (typically 2 to 4 tons depending on dumpster size)
Additional Charges to Watch For
- Overage fees: $50 to $100 per ton for weight exceeding the included allowance. This is the most common additional charge on roofing dumpsters due to the heavy weight of shingles.
- Extended rental: $5 to $15 per day beyond the included rental period
- Dry run fee: $50 to $100 if the truck arrives for pickup and the dumpster is not accessible (blocked by vehicles, etc.)
- Prohibited materials surcharge: Varies, charged if non-roofing materials (mattresses, appliances, hazardous waste) are found in the dumpster
- Fuel surcharge: Some companies add a fuel surcharge ($15 to $30) for deliveries to locations farther from their base
- Same-day or rush delivery: $25 to $75 premium for delivery within 24 hours
Total Cost Examples for Common Roofing Projects
| Project Type | Dumpster Size | Estimated Debris Weight | Total Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small roof repair (500 sq ft) | 10-yard | 500 to 1,000 lbs | $300 to $375 |
| Single-layer tear-off, 1,500 sq ft | 10 or 20-yard | 2,700 to 3,600 lbs | $350 to $450 |
| Single-layer tear-off, 2,000 sq ft | 20-yard | 3,600 to 4,800 lbs | $375 to $500 |
| Single-layer tear-off, 3,000 sq ft | 20 or 30-yard | 5,400 to 7,200 lbs | $450 to $600 |
| Two-layer tear-off, 2,000 sq ft | 30-yard | 7,000 to 9,500 lbs | $500 to $700+ |
| Tile roof removal, 2,000 sq ft | 30-yard (may need two) | 10,000 to 15,000 lbs | $600 to $1,200+ |
Scheduling and Timing Your Dumpster Rental
Timing the dumpster delivery correctly is more important than most homeowners realize. A dumpster that arrives too early sits empty on your driveway wasting rental days. One that arrives too late delays the start of your roofing project.
When to Schedule Delivery
For most roofing projects, the ideal delivery is the morning of the first day of work or the afternoon before. Your roofing crew needs the dumpster in place before they start the tear-off, since debris begins coming off the roof immediately. Scheduling delivery for the day before gives a buffer in case of delivery delays.
In Pinellas County, most dumpster rental companies offer next-day delivery for standard sizes. During peak roofing season (spring and early summer, when Florida homeowners rush to complete roof work before hurricane season), lead times can extend to 2 to 3 days for popular sizes. During the post-hurricane recovery period, dumpster availability becomes extremely tight and lead times can stretch to weeks. If a storm is approaching, securing a dumpster reservation early is a smart move.
Rental Duration for Roofing Projects
Most residential roof replacements in Pinellas County are completed in 1 to 3 days. A standard 3 to 5 day rental period is more than sufficient for the roofing work itself. The dumpster typically sits for an extra day or two after the roofing is complete while the rental company schedules pickup.
Factors that might require a longer rental period:
- Weather delays: Florida's afternoon thunderstorms during summer can halt work for hours or entire days. A 7-day rental provides weather buffer during the June through September rainy season.
- Complex projects: Large homes, multi-layer tear-offs, or projects that include structural repairs may take 4 to 7 days.
- Permit inspection delays: If the building inspector cannot visit for the final inspection during the rental period, you may need to extend.
Pickup Scheduling
Once your roofing project is complete and the dumpster is loaded, contact the rental company to schedule pickup. Most companies offer next-business-day pickup. Avoid leaving a full dumpster sitting for extended periods, as some municipalities and HOAs have time limits, and an overloaded dumpster can settle or shift on your driveway surface.
Dumpster Placement: Where to Put It
Where the dumpster goes on your property affects everything from ease of loading to potential driveway damage to permit requirements. Here are the key considerations for Pinellas County homes:
Driveway Placement (Most Common)
The most common placement is on your driveway, positioned close to the house for easy loading from the roof. This keeps the dumpster on private property (avoiding street permits) and provides a hard, level surface for the heavy container.
Protecting your driveway: A loaded roofing dumpster can weigh 8,000 to 12,000 pounds including the container itself. This weight concentrated on the dumpster's steel runners can crack or dent asphalt driveways and even some concrete surfaces. To protect your driveway:
- Ask the rental company to place plywood boards under the runners to distribute the weight
- If your driveway is older asphalt, be aware that Florida heat softens asphalt, making it more susceptible to compression damage
- Consider placing the dumpster on a street-adjacent portion of the driveway where any damage is less visible
- Document the driveway condition before delivery with photos in case you need to make a damage claim
Street Placement
If your driveway is too short, too narrow, or otherwise cannot accommodate a dumpster, street placement is the alternative. Placing a dumpster on a public street in Pinellas County requires a right-of-way permit from your local municipality:
- St. Petersburg: Right-of-way use permit required, typically $25 to $50
- Clearwater: Temporary placement permit required, fees vary
- Largo: Right-of-way encroachment permit, $35 to $75
- Unincorporated Pinellas County: Contact Pinellas County Public Works for street placement approval
Street-placed dumpsters must not block traffic, must have reflective markers or cones for visibility (especially at night), and must not obstruct fire hydrants, utility access, or sight lines at intersections. Some neighborhoods and many HOA-governed communities prohibit street placement entirely.
Yard Placement
In some situations, the dumpster may need to be placed on the yard or lawn area. This is less desirable because the weight can damage irrigation systems, compact soil, and kill grass. If yard placement is necessary, discuss the exact path with the delivery driver beforehand to avoid running over sprinkler heads, landscape lighting, or shallow utility lines.
HOA and City Rules for Dumpsters
Pinellas County has a high concentration of homeowner associations (HOAs), and many of them have specific rules governing construction dumpsters. If you live in an HOA community, check the following before scheduling your dumpster:
- Advance notice: Many HOAs require 48 to 72 hours advance written notice before a dumpster is delivered
- Duration limits: Common limits are 7 to 14 days maximum for a dumpster on the property
- Placement restrictions: Some HOAs specify that dumpsters must be on the driveway only (not the street or yard) or must not be visible from the street
- Screening requirements: A few stricter HOAs require temporary fencing or screening around the dumpster
- Approval process: Some HOAs require a formal architectural review committee approval for any construction activity, including the dumpster
- Fines: Violating HOA dumpster rules can result in fines of $50 to $200 per day
City and county rules are generally less restrictive for dumpsters on private property. Most Pinellas County municipalities allow dumpsters on residential driveways during active construction projects without special permits. The permits come into play only when the dumpster is on public property (streets, sidewalks, right-of-way) or when the duration exceeds the local limits.
How Professional Roofers Handle Disposal
If you are hiring a professional roofing contractor in Pinellas County (which is recommended for any significant roofing project), the dumpster and disposal logistics are almost always included in the contractor's scope of work. Here is how it typically works:
Included in the Contractor's Quote
Most roofing contractor quotes include a line item for disposal or waste removal. This covers the dumpster rental, delivery, pickup, and disposal fees. Some contractors own their own dump trailers and haul debris directly to the landfill or transfer station, which can be more cost-effective than a roll-off dumpster rental.
Dump trailers vs roll-off dumpsters: Many smaller roofing crews in Pinellas County use dump trailers that they tow behind a work truck. These trailers hold 10 to 15 cubic yards and can be emptied at the landfill multiple times per day. The advantage is flexibility (no scheduling around a rental company's delivery and pickup windows). The disadvantage is that the crew must make landfill trips during the workday, which can slow the project.
Larger roofing companies typically use roll-off dumpsters because they can be loaded continuously without interrupting the work flow. The dumpster sits at the site for the duration of the project, and the crew focuses on production rather than hauling.
What to Check in Your Contractor's Quote
When reviewing a roofing quote, look for these disposal-related details:
- Is disposal included? It should be explicitly listed. If the quote says "disposal not included," factor in $300 to $600 as an additional cost.
- Multi-layer tear-off: If your roof has two layers, confirm that the quote accounts for the extra disposal cost. Two-layer tear-offs generate roughly double the debris.
- Overage charges: Ask whether the contractor absorbs weight overage charges or passes them through to you. A reputable contractor should include realistic disposal costs in the original quote.
- Cleanup included: The quote should specify that the crew will clean up all debris from the roof, gutters, yard, and surrounding areas. Magnetic nail sweeping of the yard and driveway should be standard practice.
The Tear-Off and Loading Process
During a roof tear-off, the crew strips old shingles, underlayment, and damaged materials from the roof and drops them into the dumpster below. Most experienced crews use a systematic approach:
- Position the dumpster directly below the primary work area (usually the front or back of the house)
- Use roofing jacks, scaffolding, or slide boards to direct debris from the roof into the dumpster
- Strip the roof in sections, working from the peak down to the eaves, so gravity helps move debris toward the ground
- Use tarps on the ground to catch debris that misses the dumpster, particularly on the sides away from the container
- Sweep and collect ground-level debris at the end of each workday
An efficient crew minimizes ground cleanup by directing as much debris as possible directly into the dumpster. This is one of many reasons why experienced roofing crews work faster and cleaner than less experienced ones, and it is worth factoring into your contractor selection.
Florida Disposal Regulations for Roofing Waste
Florida has specific regulations governing the disposal of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, including roofing waste. These regulations affect where roofing debris can be taken and how it must be handled.
Construction and Demolition Debris Classification
Under Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62-701, roofing waste is classified as construction and demolition debris (C&D debris). This classification means it must be disposed of at facilities permitted to accept C&D waste, which includes:
- C&D debris landfills: Dedicated landfills permitted to accept construction waste. These facilities have different regulatory requirements than municipal solid waste landfills.
- C&D recycling facilities: Facilities that process construction debris for recycling. Asphalt shingles, metals, and wood can be separated and recycled at these locations.
- Transfer stations: Intermediate facilities that consolidate waste from smaller loads before transporting it to a landfill or recycling facility.
Pinellas County Disposal Options
Pinellas County Solid Waste operates facilities that accept construction and demolition debris:
- Pinellas County Solid Waste Disposal Complex: Located in north St. Petersburg, this facility accepts C&D debris with tipping fees based on weight
- Private C&D facilities: Several private transfer stations and recycling facilities in the greater Tampa Bay area accept roofing debris
Tipping fees (the per-ton charge to dump material at a disposal facility) in Pinellas County typically range from $35 to $60 per ton for C&D debris. These fees are part of what you are paying for in the dumpster rental price or in your contractor's disposal charge.
Shingle Recycling in Florida
Asphalt shingle recycling is available in Florida but is not as widespread as recycling for other materials. When shingles are recycled, they are typically ground into small pieces and used for:
- Road paving: Ground shingle material can be blended into hot mix asphalt for road surfaces. The asphalt cement in old shingles adds binding properties to the mix.
- New shingle manufacturing: Some manufacturers use recycled shingle material as a component in new products.
- Fuel: The asphalt content in shingles has energy value and can be used as supplemental fuel in cement kilns and other industrial processes.
If shingle recycling is important to you, ask your dumpster rental company or contractor specifically whether they route shingle waste to a recycling facility. Some companies offer a "clean load" option where the dumpster contains only shingles (no mixed debris), which is easier to process at recycling facilities and may result in a reduced tipping fee.
Asbestos Considerations
Homes built before 1980 may have roofing materials that contain asbestos. Asbestos-containing roofing materials cannot be disposed of in standard C&D dumpsters or at standard C&D facilities. They require:
- Testing by a certified asbestos inspector before tear-off
- Removal by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor
- Disposal at a facility permitted to accept asbestos-containing waste
- Notification to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) before removal begins
The cost of asbestos testing ($200 to $500) is a small price compared to the fines and liability for improper asbestos disposal. If your Pinellas County home has its original roof from before 1980 and has never been re-roofed, asbestos testing should be part of the project planning.
DIY Roofing Dumpster Rental: Step by Step
If you are managing the dumpster rental yourself (perhaps for a DIY repair project or because your contractor does not include disposal), here is the step-by-step process:
- Estimate your debris volume and weight: Use the sizing guidance above to determine the right dumpster size. When in doubt, size up.
- Get quotes from 2 to 3 companies: Call local dumpster rental companies and get quotes that include the rental period, weight allowance, and all fees. Companies serving Pinellas County include national brands (Waste Management, Republic Services) and local operators.
- Check HOA and local rules: Before booking, confirm placement rules with your HOA and local municipality.
- Schedule delivery: Book the dumpster for delivery the day before or the morning of your project start. Confirm the delivery window and provide clear placement instructions.
- Prepare the placement area: Clear the driveway or placement area of vehicles, trash cans, and obstacles. If placing on the driveway, lay down plywood boards where the runners will rest.
- Load efficiently: Distribute weight evenly across the dumpster. Do not stack material above the top edge of the container (most rental agreements prohibit overfilling).
- Schedule pickup: Call for pickup as soon as the project is complete. Do not leave a full dumpster sitting longer than necessary.
Money-Saving Tips for Roofing Dumpster Rentals
Dumpster rental is a relatively small portion of your overall roofing project cost, but these tips can help you avoid unnecessary expenses:
- Right-size the first time: Ordering a second dumpster because the first one filled up costs more than ordering one size larger from the start. A 30-yard dumpster costs $75 to $150 more than a 20-yard, but a second 20-yard delivery costs $375 to $500.
- Keep the load clean: Do not throw non-roofing waste (household junk, yard waste, furniture) into the roofing dumpster. Mixed loads may incur higher disposal fees, and prohibited items can trigger surcharges.
- Ask about weight included: Compare the weight allowance, not just the base price. A $400 rental with 4 tons included is better value for a roofing project than a $350 rental with only 2 tons included.
- Book during off-peak times: Late fall through early spring is the slower season for both roofing and dumpster rental in Pinellas County. Prices and availability are both more favorable.
- Bundle with your contractor: Contractors who rent dumpsters frequently get better rates than one-time residential customers. Having disposal included in your contractor's quote usually costs less than renting separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a roofing dumpster rental cost in Pinellas County?
A roofing dumpster rental in Pinellas County costs $300 to $600 for a 3 to 7 day rental. A 10-yard runs $300 to $400, a 20-yard runs $375 to $500, and a 30-yard runs $450 to $600. These prices include delivery, pickup, and disposal up to the weight limit. Overage charges of $50 to $100 per additional ton apply if you exceed the included weight.
What size dumpster do I need for a roofing project?
For a typical single-story Pinellas County home (1,500 to 2,500 square feet of roof), a 20-yard dumpster is the most common choice for a single-layer shingle tear-off. Two-layer tear-offs or roofs over 2,500 square feet typically need a 30-yard. Small repairs or roofs under 1,500 square feet can use a 10-yard.
How heavy are roofing shingles in a dumpster?
Asphalt shingles are extremely heavy. A 20-square roof (2,000 square feet) produces 2,000 to 3,000 pounds of shingle waste during a single-layer tear-off. With underlayment, nails, and other debris added, the total reaches 2,500 to 4,000 pounds. Two-layer tear-offs can generate 5,000 to 8,000 pounds from a standard home.
Do I need a permit to put a dumpster in my driveway in Pinellas County?
If the dumpster is on your private property (driveway), you generally do not need a permit. Street placement requires a right-of-way permit from your local municipality ($25 to $75). Always check your HOA rules, which may have additional restrictions on placement, duration, and notification requirements.
Can roofing shingles be recycled in Florida?
Yes, asphalt shingles can be recycled in Florida. They are ground up and used in road paving, new asphalt products, and industrial fuel. Recycling availability varies by location. Ask your dumpster company or contractor whether they offer shingle recycling and if there is a cost difference.
How long can I keep a roofing dumpster at my house?
Most rentals include a 3 to 7 day period. Additional days cost $5 to $15 per day. Most residential roof replacements complete in 1 to 3 days, so a standard rental period is typically sufficient. Some municipalities and HOAs limit dumpster duration to 7 to 14 days.