How to Dispose of Rocks
Whether you’re starting a hardscaping project or simply looking to remove rocks from your yard, you may be wondering how to dispose of landscaping rocks you no longer want or need when the project is complete.
To simplify your cleanup, we’ve broken down your main options for rock disposal, to help you determine the best route to dispose of rock and gravel from your project.
Rock Disposal Options

1. Rent a Roll Off Dumpster
Renting a dumpster is a simple way to dispose of rocks and gravel. You can typically load a roll off dumpster with up to 10 tons of material, which makes for a much more efficient rock disposal process than if you were to haul all of your debris to the dump yourself. To rent a dumpster, simply call and schedule a delivery time that works for you. Then, you can load your rocks and gravel at your own pace, and call back when you’re ready for a pickup. This disposal route saves you a lot of time and effort in transporting and dumping rocks.
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2. Check Craigslist or Freecycle
The classifieds are a great place to get rid of rocks and gravel, as landscapers, contractors and DIYers can often repurpose your unwanted materials for new projects. Check the “Wanted” section to see if someone in your area is looking, or create your own listing. You can list your items for free if the buyer is willing to pick them up, and have someone else dispose of your rocks and gravel for you – a win-win situation.
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3. Leave a 'Free' Sign Out
If you’re looking for a free rock disposal option without the effort of finding a buyer online, you can always try a “Free Landscaping Rocks” sign at the end of your driveway. If possible, make your rocks easily accessible for an interested passerby to haul them away if you’re not home. Otherwise, you should list your contact information on the sign so people can get in touch with you. If you’re part of a homeowners’ association, check that you are allowed to leave a sign and debris outside before going this route for rock and gravel disposal.
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4. Hire a Junk Removal Company
Some junk removal companies will take heavy debris, such as rocks and concrete, though fees can vary greatly, and a set price cannot be determined until the junk truck arrives. The company will set up a delivery window and send out two team members who will determine the rock removal cost. Weight usually determines the final cost for rock disposal, as it requires more labor for the junk professionals and more trips to dump the rocks. This disposal option is usually best for smaller amounts of rock and may not be ideal for all jobs. Learn more about if a junk removal service is the right fit for your project.
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5. Dump the Rocks Yourself
Finally, you can look into where you can dump rocks on your own. Depending on how many you have, you can dispose of rocks and gravel yourself at the nearest landfill. You will need to have plenty of time, assistance and a truck bed large enough to fit all of them. Some county landfills offer free dump days a few times a year, though if yours does not, your costs will increase with each trip to dump the rocks. You will be charged for each load of rocks and will of course need to pay for gas. If you decide to dump rocks on your own, confirm beforehand that your local facility is open to the public and can accept your materials.
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How Much Does Rock Disposal Cost?
Your cost for rock removal depends on the amount of debris you’re getting rid of. The volume of debris will also determine which rock or gravel disposal option is the most cost-effective.
For instance, junk removal services disposing of heavy debris often price disposal based on how many truckloads will be filled. With bedload pricing structures, you can only stack your materials about 1 – 1 ½ feet high in their 80-square-foot trucks, removing up to 2 tons of rocks at a time.
Throwing other heavy materials away?
Find out their estimated weight.
Gravel & Rock Recycling Options
Looking to put your old landscaping materials to good use? These are a few creative ways to recycle rocks and gravel.
1. Take It to a Landscape Supplier
If your rocks are clean and in good shape, you may be able to dispose of them through a local landscaper or landscaping supply store. Depending on the quantity and quality of your materials, this can be a great way to get rid of rocks for free if a landscaper will be able to reuse them.
2. Donate to a Charitable Reuse Store
Nonprofit resell stores, such as Habitat for Humanity ReStores, accept donations and sell home improvement items, with the proceeds supporting the community. Find a ReStore near you and see if they can accept the rocks you’re looking to dispose of.

3. Use It in Your Own Landscaping
Finally, your landscaping is a great place to recycle rocks. If you’re hoping to remove and recycle your rocks and gravel, you could use them in a low-budget backyard project like a DIY firepit or a garden walkway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rock Disposal
Call 877-220-6380 to find the right dumpster for your project or get a quote online
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