San Diego Dump Fees Guide 2025: What You'll Actually Pay
Quick Answer
San Diego dump fees range from $70-$150+ depending on load size and material type. Add truck rental ($50-$150), gas, and your time (3-5 hours), and DIY disposal often costs more than professional junk removal starting at $100.
Planning to haul junk to the dump yourself? Understanding San Diego's dump fees, locations, and hidden costs helps you decide if DIY or professional junk removal saves you more money and time.
San Diego Dump Locations & Fees (2025)
1. Miramar Landfill (Greenery)
Address: 5180 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed Sundays)
Phone: (858) 694-7000
Disposal Fees:
- Minimum charge (up to 300 lbs)$38
- Per ton (over 300 lbs)$75-$150+
- Typical pickup truck load$70-$100
2. Otay Landfill
Address: 1700 Maxwell Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed Sundays)
Phone: (619) 409-5200
Disposal Fees:
- Minimum charge$38
- Per ton rate$75-$150+
- Construction debris (per ton)$100-$175
3. Sycamore Landfill
Address: 8514 Mast Blvd, Santee, CA 92071
Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
Phone: (619) 596-5100
Disposal Fees:
- Minimum charge$38
- Per ton rate$75-$150
⚠️ Important Notes:
- • Fees increase for construction debris, appliances, and special waste
- • Uncovered loads may incur $50+ penalty fees
- • Some materials (tires, batteries, electronics) have separate fees or restrictions
- • Fees are subject to change - call ahead to confirm current rates
Hidden Costs of DIY Dump Runs
The dump fee is just one part of the total cost. Here's what most people forget:
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Truck rental (Home Depot/U-Haul) | $50-$150 |
| Gas (round trip to dump) | $15-$30 |
| Dump fee | $70-$150 |
| Uncovered load penalty (if applicable) | $50+ |
| Your time (3-5 hours) | Priceless |
| TOTAL DIY COST | $185-$330+ |
Professional Junk Removal vs DIY Dump Run
| Factor | DIY Dump Run | Junk Removal |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cost | $185-$330+ | $100-$495 |
| Your Time | 3-5 hours | 0 hours (we do it) |
| Physical Labor | You load, unload, lift | ✓ We do everything |
| Multiple Trips | Often needed | One visit |
| Recycling/Donation | You coordinate | ✓ Included |
| Risk of Injury | High (heavy lifting) | None |
| Dump Hours | Mon-Sat only | 7 days/week |
What Can't You Take to San Diego Dumps?
Prohibited Items at San Diego Landfills:
- ✗ Hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, solvents)
- ✗ Tires (separate facility required)
- ✗ Batteries (recycling center only)
- ✗ Electronics (e-waste recycling required)
- ✗ Asbestos materials
- ✗ Medical waste
- ✗ Liquids of any kind
Note: Professional junk removal services can handle most of these items through proper disposal channels.
When DIY Makes Sense vs Professional Junk Removal
✓ DIY Dump Run Makes Sense If:
- • You have a truck already
- • It's just 1-2 small items
- • You have help with heavy items
- • Dump is close to your location
- • You enjoy physical work
✓ Junk Removal Makes Sense If:
- • You value your time
- • Multiple heavy items (like mattresses or scrap metal)
- • No truck available
- • Need it done quickly
- • Want eco-friendly disposal
Real Cost Comparison Examples
Scenario 1: Single Couch Removal
DIY:
- Truck rental: $75
- Gas: $20
- Dump fee: $38
- Your time: 3 hours
- Total: $133 + time
Professional:
- Couch removal: $100
- Labor: Included
- Disposal: Included
- Your time: 0 hours
- Total: $100 ✓ SAVES MONEY
Scenario 2: Garage Cleanout
DIY:
- Truck rental (2 days): $200
- Gas (2 trips): $40
- Dump fees (2 loads): $150
- Your time: 8+ hours
- Total: $390 + time
Professional:
- Garage cleanout: $249-$349
- All labor: Included
- Disposal: Included
- Your time: 0 hours
- Total: $249-$349 ✓ SAVES $40-$140
Skip the Dump - Get Professional Service
For most San Diego residents, professional junk removal offers better value than DIY dump runs. You save time, avoid heavy lifting, and often pay less when you factor in all costs.
Call (619) 750-0114 for a free quote. Same-day service available throughout San Diego County including Chula Vista, El Cajon, La Mesa, Santee, and Oceanside.
Skip the Dump - We Handle Everything
Professional junk removal starting at $100 - often less than DIY when you count all costs