Construction Debris: What You Can (and Can't) Take to the Dump
Renovating your home? Drywall, lumber, concrete, and roofing materials have different disposal rules than regular trash. Here's what to know.
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Kern County Landfills in Tehachapi is the local spot where people and businesses bring trash that needs to be buried. Neighbors, contractors and commercial haulers all use this place when other options won't do; it’s the large county landfill a few miles off Tehachapi Blvd.
There’s an entrance booth and a scale, so vehicles stop twice - once in and once out - because tipping fees are charged by weight. The site is big and mostly open dirt and compacted piles; expect to drive up a gradual ramp to the tipping area. Recycling and organics separation is commonly enforced in California, so trailers with mixed loads may need sorting before weighing. Weekends and seasonal cleanups often bring lines, and larger commercial trucks are handled alongside residential cars and pickups.
Facility Information
Before You Go
- Cover loads with a tarp or tie downs; loose debris attracts attention and can mean extra handling at the drop-off.
- Pre-sort any obvious recyclables or green waste at home where possible - it saves time at the site and avoids surprises at the scale.
- Bring a pickup or trailer that’s easy to back into the unloading area; space can be dusty and turning around with a long vehicle is awkward.
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Disposal Guides
Learn how to properly dispose of common items.
Electronics Recycling: Where to Take Old TVs, Computers, and Phones
E-waste rules vary wildly by state. Some ban electronics from landfills entirely. Here's how to recycle old TVs, computers, and phones properly.
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Hazardous Waste Collection Days: What They Take and How to Prepare
Most counties run free household hazardous waste collection events. Here's what qualifies, how to find your local event, and how to store stuff safely until then.
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