Short answer
Yes, asphalt shingles can go in most dumpsters, but they're very heavy, so the weight limit decides the size.
Plan by weight
A single-layer asphalt shingle tear-off weighs about 2.5 lb per square foot (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association: shingle recycling). That's about 5,000 lb for a 2,000 sq ft roof, more than the ~3,000 lb Fixr lists for a 20-yard (Fixr: dumpster rental cost (updated January 2025)). Use the shingle calculator for your roof.
Recycling
Asphalt shingles can be recycled into paving in some areas; Connecticut DEEP describes shingle recycling as an option for roofing waste (Connecticut DEEP: asphalt shingle recycling). Recyclers usually want shingles kept separate from other debris, so ask for a shingle-only container.
Tips for roofers and homeowners
- Tell the company the number of layers: two layers roughly doubles the weight.
- Keep the load level and don't overfill.
- Cover the container if rain is coming: wet debris is heavier.
Local drop-off sites
Each of our city guides lists the official household hazardous waste and drop-off option: New YorkLos AngelesChicagoHoustonPhiladelphiaSan AntonioSan DiegoAustinSeattleSan FranciscoDenverWashingtonBostonMinneapolisPortlandNashvillePittsburghAtlantaColumbusIndianapolisCharlotteTampaKansas CitySt. LouisDetroitMilwaukeeSacramentoCincinnatiChattanooga.
Questions
What size dumpster for shingles?
Size by weight, not space. Many single-layer roofs fit a 20 or 30-yard by weight; bigger or multi-layer roofs may need two loads. Try the shingle calculator.