Most household and building debris is fine. The limits come from California's trash bans and from the rules at the county transfer station.
CalRecycle says it's illegal to put hazardous waste in the garbage. That covers batteries, fluorescent bulbs, paint, pesticides, pool chemicals, motor oil, and antifreeze. It also covers tires, electronics like TVs and computers, propane tanks, asbestos, and treated wood.
The Lovelace facility has its own list of refused items. It won't take hazardous or liquid waste, pressure-treated wood, logs and tree stumps, or large loads of concrete, dirt, rock, or asphalt. Some heavy construction pieces that could damage its equipment are turned away as well.
Solvents and fuel can't go in a standard dumpster either. Household chemicals can go to the county's hazardous waste drop-off in Stockton, which is open Thursday through Saturday.
If you're not sure about an item, check with your account manager before it goes in the container.