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What NOT to Leave at the Curb in Dane County (And What to Do Instead)

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Leaving unwanted items at the curb might seem like the easiest way to deal with junk, but in Dane County, it can lead to fines, legal issues, or simply result in your trash sitting untouched for days. Most residents aren’t aware that many common items are prohibited from curbside collection—or that different cities within Dane County have their own regulations.


This guide explains which items you should never leave at the curb in Dane County, what your legal disposal options are, and how to get rid of things responsibly (and without the hassle).





Why You Can’t Just Leave Junk at the Curb



Many cities and towns in Dane County, including Madison, Sun Prairie, Middleton, Fitchburg, and Verona, have specific guidelines for what can be placed out for collection. Bulk pickup often requires appointments, has item limits, and only accepts certain materials.


Failing to follow these rules may result in:


  • Fines or citations from your municipality

  • Missed pickups or partial collection

  • Reports of illegal dumping

  • Disruption of neighborhood appearance or rodent complaints



For example, the City of Madison Streets Division makes it clear that leaving bulk items at the curb without a scheduled collection is considered illegal dumping (source).





Items You Should NOT Leave at the Curb in Dane County




1. Mattresses and Box Springs



Most Dane County municipalities require mattresses and box springs to be scheduled for pickup and often demand that they be wrapped in plastic to prevent contamination. Madison, for example, will not pick up mattresses that aren’t properly wrapped.


What to do instead: Drop them off at the Dane County Landfill (fees apply) or hire a junk removal service that handles mattress recycling. Learn more about mattress guidelines from City of Madison Streets.





2. Construction Debris (Drywall, Wood, Insulation, Roofing, etc.)



Debris from remodeling, demolition, or home improvement projects is not accepted through curbside pickup services in most municipalities.


What to do instead: Use a licensed junk removal company to haul the materials. Junk Jumpers offers Construction Cleanup Services that include site clearing and disposal.





3. Electronics (TVs, Monitors, Computers)



Cathode ray TVs, flat screens, and older electronics are considered e-waste and are not accepted curbside. Dumping electronics illegally can carry environmental penalties in Wisconsin.


What to do instead: Use registered recycling centers like Resource Solutions or drop off electronics through the Dane County Clean Sweep program. View Wisconsin-approved e-waste facilities here: E-cycle Wisconsin.


Need help fast? Schedule General Junk Removal Services.





4. Tires, Car Batteries, and Vehicle Parts



These items are not accepted by municipal collection programs due to hazardous content and recycling regulations.


What to do instead: Take tires and batteries to the Dane County Landfill or Pellitteri Waste Systems, or let a licensed hauler handle disposal for you. View our Residential Junk Removal Services for help with mixed junk removal.





5. Paint, Chemicals, and Household Hazardous Waste



Curbside programs will not collect hazardous waste such as:


  • Paint

  • Motor oil

  • Solvents

  • Pesticides

  • Cleaners

  • Fluorescent light bulbs



What to do instead: The Dane County Clean Sweep Program safely disposes of hazardous materials for county residents. Learn more and view accepted items at the Clean Sweep Website.





6. Appliances (Refrigerators, Stoves, Washers, etc.)



Appliances contain refrigerants, heavy metals, or components that require special handling. Most cities require that you pay a separate fee and schedule the pickup in advance.


What to do instead: If you live in Madison, you can drop off appliances at 121 E. Olin Ave (fees apply). If you want someone to handle the lifting, we offer safe and legal Appliance and Residential Junk Removal.





7. Excessive Bulk or Mixed Junk



Leaving a large pile of mixed debris or excessive bulk (especially outside designated pickup days) will almost certainly result in items being left behind or complaints from neighbors.


What to do instead: Schedule a full Property Cleanout or request a pickup from a hauling service that specializes in bulk junk removal.





Local Ordinance Snapshot: Madison Bulk Item Pickup




  • Bulk items require scheduling via work order.

  • You may only set items out after 3:00 p.m. the day before collection.

  • Piles left without a scheduled pickup may be tagged as illegal dumping.



Other cities in Dane County (like Sun Prairie or Fitchburg) follow similar guidelines. Always check with your local public works department for curbside rules.





A Smarter, Easier Option: Responsible Junk Removal



Junk Jumpers offers a legal, fast, and convenient way to get rid of anything the city won’t take. We serve all of Dane County and help with:


  • Furniture and appliance removal

  • Construction debris and renovation cleanup

  • Full estate or eviction cleanouts

  • Curbside overflow pickup

  • Electronic and mattress disposal



View our full list of Junk Removal Services or request help with Cleanouts.





Final Thoughts



Dane County residents have access to great municipal services—but they come with rules. Leaving prohibited items at the curb could result in delays, complaints, or fines.


If you’re unsure what to do with an item, chances are it’s not meant for the curb. Junk Jumpers is ready to help you handle anything your city won’t—quickly, legally, and responsibly.


For more information or to schedule service, visit junkjumpers.com.




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