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Can you put propane tanks and cylinders in a dumpster?

Covers: Propane tanks and cylinders (empty or full)

No

Short answer: Never, even when empty. Pressurized cylinders can explode in compactor trucks.

Why

Mississippi DEQ says propane is a hazardous material and tanks should not go to the curb because they endanger collectors in compactor trucks. Oregon Metro says propane tanks must go to a hazardous waste facility even when empty. Bagster lists propane as unacceptable, and Dumpsters.com prohibits propane tanks.

What to do with them instead

Use a tank exchange (leave the old tank when you buy a filled one), a propane dealer, or HHW for small 1-lb cylinders.

Sources

  1. Mississippi DEQ - Propane Tanks FAQ
  2. Oregon Metro - Common household hazardous products
  3. Bagster - Products & Services (capacity, acceptable/unacceptable materials)
  4. Dumpsters.com - What Can't You Put in a Dumpster? (Prohibited Items)

Checked October 2026. Rules change; your hauler's prohibited-items list is the final word.

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