If you’re wondering how to get rid of bamboo and scrap wood in Miami, there are multiple safe, eco-conscious, and city-compliant options available. Whether your wood waste comes from storm debris, home renovations, or backyard landscaping, proper disposal is key to avoiding fines and protecting the environment. This guide breaks down the most effective ways to dispose of bamboo and scrap wood in Miami—from curbside yard waste collection and local transfer stations to roll-off dumpsters and full-service junk removal—so you can choose the method that best fits your project size and schedule.
Your Waste Bamboo and Wood Disposal Options in Miami
When it comes to getting rid of bamboo and scrap wood in Miami, your disposal method will depend on the volume, type of material, and whether it’s residential or commercial. From Miami-Dade’s yard trash program to public drop-off sites and private dumpster services, there are multiple efficient ways to handle your wood waste while staying compliant with local regulations.
1. Curbside Yard Trash Pickup by Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade County provides scheduled curbside yard trash collection for single-family homes in eligible service areas, which includes small loads of untreated bamboo and natural wood debris.
Pickup Guidelines:
Yard trash must be placed curbside no more than 3 days before your scheduled bulky waste pickup
Bamboo and wood must be cut into 4-foot lengths or less
Piles should not exceed 25 cubic yards (about the size of a large SUV)
Do not include treated, painted, or pressure-treated wood
Items must be placed at least 5 feet away from fences, mailboxes, and parked cars
Have Extra Debris or Treated Wood?
Oversized loads or treated materials like fencing or stained planks should be taken to an approved drop-off site or scheduled through a private service.
Call for Pickup Info: 311 (Miami-Dade County Services)
More Info: miamidade.gov/bulktrash
Note: Failing to follow setout rules may result in missed collection or fines.
2. Drop Off at a Miami-Dade Trash and Recycling Center
For residents with larger loads or materials that don’t qualify for curbside pickup, Miami-Dade’s Trash and Recycling Centers (TRCs) offer convenient drop-off options for bamboo and clean wood waste.
Popular Drop-Off Sites:
West Miami-Dade TRC
1830 NW 79th St, Miami, FL 33147
Open daily, 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Tel:
South Dade Landfill
23707 SW 97th Ave, Homestead, FL 33032
Open Mon–Sat, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tel: 305-258-2830
Accepted Materials:
Untreated bamboo stalks and clippings
Natural wood, clean lumber scraps
Trimmed branches or wood bundled for transport
Not Accepted:
Painted or stained wood
Treated lumber, decking, or wood with nails/metal attachments
Tip: Bring a valid ID and proof of Miami-Dade County residency (e.g., utility bill or driver’s license).
More Info: miamidade.gov/solidwaste
3. Rent a Dumpster for Large-Scale Wood Debris
For larger projects—like yard overhauls, construction work, or post-hurricane cleanup—renting a dumpster is often the most efficient and stress-free disposal option.
When to Use a Dumpster:
You’re removing large quantities of bamboo or mixed wood
You need several days to sort and discard materials
You’re dealing with both treated and untreated wood types
You want one place to toss debris from a renovation or cleanout
Recommended Dumpster Sizes:
10-yard – Small landscaping or fencing projects
15-yard – Multi-yard bamboo trimming or light demolition
20-yard+ – Full renovations, commercial jobs, or heavy debris
Trusted Providers in Miami:
Elgins Dumpsters – Miami
Tel: (305) 506-8116
Bin There Dump That Dumpster Rental Miami
Tel: 954-516-1045
Key Reminders:
Avoid overfilling past the rim
Confirm material types before booking
Place the dumpster on flat, accessible ground (e.g., driveway or gravel area)
4. Hire a Junk Removal Service for Bamboo and Scrap Wood
If you don’t want to lift, cut, or transport anything, hiring a junk removal service in Miami is a fast and labor-free option. These crews will remove bamboo and wood debris from anywhere on your property—garage, backyard, or curb—and handle disposal for you.
Best For:
Homeowners with no vehicle or trailer
Busy schedules or tight deadlines
Seniors or people with limited mobility
Renters moving out or cleaning up last-minute
Top Junk Removal Services in Miami:
Junk King Miami North
10760 NW 138th St Unit 4, Hialeah Gardens, FL 33018
Tel: 786-837-9775
Junk King Miami South
10715 SW 190th St Suite 7, Cutler Bay, FL 33157
Tel: 786-350-3000
Average Cost Range:
$85–$250 per load, depending on accessibility, labor, and debris type.
Accepted Items:
Bamboo stalks and prunings
Scrap lumber, plywood, and planks
Fencing sections and treated wood (confirm in advance)
Combine your bamboo or wood removal with other junk for bundled pricing.
Choosing the Right Disposal Method for Bamboo and Scrap Wood – Miami
| Disposal Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Curbside Yard Waste Pickup | – Included with Miami-Dade solid waste services – Good for small, bundled wood and bamboo debris – No vehicle needed | – Must follow strict size and weight limits – Not available in all municipalities – No painted or pressure-treated wood allowed |
| Drop Off at a Trash & Recycling Center (TRC) | – Accepts large and treated wood loads – Multiple locations across Miami-Dade – Free for county residents with ID | – Requires self-hauling – May have lines during peak hours – ID or utility bill may be required for access |
| Rent a Dumpster | – Ideal for large home or landscaping projects – Flexible rental periods (1–7+ days) – Great for mixed wood, including treated pieces | – Requires space for placement – Not cost-effective for small jobs – Must verify allowed materials with provider |
| Hire a Junk Removal Service | – No lifting or prep needed – Quick pickup (often same or next day) – Great for homes with HOA restrictions | – More expensive than self-disposal – Price may increase for access issues (e.g., backyards) – Some limit or surcharge for treated lumber |
Handling Treated vs. Untreated Wood in Miami
Not all wood waste can go to the same place. In Miami-Dade County, how you handle treated vs. untreated wood determines whether it qualifies for curbside pickup, should be brought to a Trash and Recycling Center (TRC), or must be taken to a landfill for safe disposal.
Untreated Wood
Untreated wood is natural, uncoated lumber that hasn’t been chemically altered. It’s safe for curbside yard waste collection and can be composted or mulched by the county. Common examples include:
Fresh-cut or dried bamboo stalks
Clean wood branches or unpainted poles
Natural wood fencing or pallets with no paint or sealant
✅ Accepted with yard waste curbside (when bundled properly)
✅ Allowed at Miami-Dade TRCs without special handling or fees
Treated Wood
Treated wood has been chemically modified to resist weather, rot, or pests. It includes materials that have been painted, stained, sealed, or pressure-treated—and these must be handled separately.
Pressure-treated deck boards
Painted or stained wood from fences or outdoor furniture
Coated lumber, even if only partially finished
❌ Not allowed in curbside yard waste pickup
❌ Cannot be mixed with clean wood for recycling
✅ Must be taken to a landfill or approved facility such as the South Dade Landfill for proper processing
Why the Difference Matters
Treated wood may contain hazardous chemicals like arsenic, copper, or chromium, which can leach into the soil or air when processed incorrectly. Placing treated wood with yard debris contaminates composting operations and violates county disposal guidelines.
How to Identify Treated Wood
If you’re not sure whether a piece of wood is treated, check for:
Greenish or dark tinting on the surface
Stamp markings such as “PT,” “CCA,” or “Ground Contact”
Chemical smell or oily texture
Paint, varnish, or waterproof coating
When in doubt, take it to a Trash & Recycling Center or landfill and let staff guide you.
