Orange County Dump Guide: Landfills, Fees and What They Accept

If you’ve got a truck full of junk, you might be planning a trip to the Orange County dump. Before you load up, though, it helps to know which landfills actually accept residents, what it costs, and what they won’t take. Otherwise, you could drive across the county only to get turned away at the gate.

This guide covers the basics, based on information from OC Waste & Recycling. Because fees and rules can change, always confirm details before you go.

Which Orange County Dump Can Residents Use?

OC Waste & Recycling operates three active landfills. However, only two of them accept the public:

• Olinda Alpha Landfill (Brea): open to commercial and public customers, so residents can self-haul.
• Prima Deshecha Landfill (San Juan Capistrano): also open to commercial and public customers.
• Frank R. Bowerman Landfill (Irvine): commercial disposal only, so residents can’t self-haul here.

In addition, the landfills only accept waste from Orange County residents and businesses, and you may be asked for proof of address. The landfills operate Monday through Saturday, with schedules that vary by site.

How Much Does the Orange County Dump Cost?

According to the county’s landfill fee schedule effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, public disposal fees include:

• Minimum charge for cars, minivans and SUVs: $15 for loads under 360 pounds
• Minimum charge for pickup trucks and utility vans: $30 for loads under 880 pounds
• Standard materials over 880 pounds: $92.70 per ton
• Hard-to-handle materials over 880 pounds: $107.70 per ton
• Oversized items: an additional $15 for items like wood, furniture or mattresses over 6 feet long

Keep in mind that those fees don’t include your truck rental, gas, time or help loading.

What the Orange County Dump Won’t Take

Several common items can’t go to the landfill, or need special handling:

• Tires: the county’s FAQ says its landfills don’t accept tires, and it recommends contacting a local tire store instead.
• Electronics and TVs: these aren’t accepted at the landfills. Instead, the county’s household hazardous waste centers take them for free.
• Hazardous waste: paint, chemicals, oil, batteries and pesticides go to household hazardous waste centers, not the trash area.
• Special items: boats, campers and jet skis require a disposal appointment through the county information line.

Items With Better Options

Mattresses

Although landfills accept mattresses, the county recommends recycling them. In fact, mattress-only loads can be dropped off for free at Olinda Alpha and Prima Deshecha through the county’s mattress recycling program.

Appliances

The county’s landfills accept appliances and charge normal disposal fees. However, many people find it easier to use a city bulky item pickup or a hauler who recycles appliances properly.

Paint

Leftover house paint can often be dropped off for free at participating retail stores through PaintCare, which is usually closer than a landfill or hazardous waste center.

Tips for a Smooth Dump Run

• Bring proof of Orange County residency.
• Tarp and tie down your load. Unsecured loads are dangerous on the freeway.
• Separate hazardous items. They’ll need to go somewhere else.
• Go early. Lines can get long, especially on Saturdays.
• Check the weather. The hazardous waste centers close during rain.

Is a Dump Run Worth It?

For a small load and a truck you already own, a trip to the Orange County dump can be affordable. On the other hand, once you add truck rental, fuel, time, lifting and multiple trips, hiring a junk removal company often makes more sense, especially for heavy items or large cleanouts.