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.
Read more →
A small public dump used by Houghton Lake residents for everyday trash and cleanup runs. Locals bring everything from pickup loads after yard work to small household disposals. It’s the kind of place neighbors stop at between jobs or errands rather than a commercial transfer station.
Drive up to the entrance off S Harrison Rd where there is usually a simple booth and a scale for weighing loads - most county dumps charge by weight, so plan to stop twice if that’s the case. The site is mostly open lot with piles or containers for different kinds of material and a rough gravel surface to navigate; trailers and trucks are a common sight. Pull straight in and find a place to unload; traffic can bottleneck on busy days, especially spring and fall cleanup weekends. Keep an eye out for posted instructions once inside so vehicles flow without blocking the entrance.
Facility Information
Before You Go
- Separate deposit-eligible bottles and cans from the rest of the load; Michigan’s bottle deposit system affects what gets handled where.
- Secure and cover loose trash before driving in so nothing blows out on Harrison Rd, and use straps or a tarp for light debris.
- Try going on a weekday if possible - weekends and holiday-adjacent days tend to be the slowest-moving times and can mean waiting behind several trucks.
Explore More
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →