Columbus bulk pickup versus renting a roll-off
Columbus picks up many bulk items free, but only on a day you schedule through 311. Building materials are on its refused list, and Title 13 says remodel waste must go in a container and out with an authorized hauler.
| Item | City bulk pickup | Roll-off |
|---|---|---|
| Old sofa, chairs, mattress | Yes, free, scheduled | Yes |
| Rolled carpet | Yes: bundles 4 ft long, 2 ft across, tied | Yes |
| Drywall, tile, cabinets, lumber | No: "excavating and building materials" refused | Yes |
| Fridge, freezer, AC, dehumidifier | No | Ask the hauler; SWACO charges $20 per appliance |
| Tires and car parts | No | Ask the hauler; SWACO charges per tire |
| Bagged trash | No: goes in your regular cart | Yes |
| Hazardous waste | No | No |
Setting out bulk items
Book by calling (614) 645-3111 or through 311 online. Put items out on your scheduled day, in front of the house away from obstructions, or at the alley line if your pickup is in the alley. Leave furniture assembled and tape any glass.
Why remodel debris needs a container
Title 13, section 1303.021(D)(3), requires construction, remodeling and demolition waste to be held in a dumpster, roll-off or Director-approved container and disposed of by an authorized hauler. The civil penalty listed for breaking that section is $1,000.
Sources, read Nov 11, 2026: Columbus Bulk Collection; Unacceptable Items; Title 13 (rev. 9/16/25). Suburbs run their own trash programs and are not covered here.