This page explains how to dispose of scrap metal in Orlando legally, safely, and efficiently. Whether you’re a homeowner clearing out your garage, a contractor managing renovation debris, or a business handling industrial waste, this guide outlines all approved options—from curbside pickup rules and local drop-off centers to dumpster rentals and full-service scrap metal removal. You’ll also learn how to distinguish between ferrous and non-ferrous metals, how to stay compliant with Orlando city regulations, and how to make eco-friendly choices that align with Orange County’s recycling goals.
Use this page to find the right method based on your metal type, volume, location, and access to transportation—plus get answers to common questions about appliance recycling, hazardous materials, and where to get paid for scrap.
Your Scrap Metal Disposal Options in Orlando
Orlando offers several legal and efficient ways to dispose of scrap metal, depending on the type and quantity. You can use city-approved curbside pickup for small, non-hazardous items, drop off materials at local recycling centers, rent a dumpster for bulk disposal, or hire a licensed removal service for fast, hands-off collection. Each method aligns with Orange County’s environmental policies and ensures compliance with local disposal regulations.
1. Curbside Collection Guidelines (If Applicable)
Orlando’s curbside pickup accepts small non-ferrous metal items like aluminum cans, clean tin, and some appliances without refrigerants. Ferrous metals like steel may be excluded from standard collection.
Weight & Size Limits: Items must weigh under 50 lbs and fit into the blue cart with the lid closed. Oversized scrap requires special scheduling.
Preparation: Remove hazardous parts (e.g., oil, gas, batteries). No sharp or loose parts allowed.
Scheduling a Pickup: Call the Solid Waste Division at 407-246-2314 or use the City of Orlando’s online request form for bulk metal pickups.
2. Drop-Off Locations in Orlando for Scrap Metal
Orlando has several city-approved and private facilities where residents and businesses can drop off scrap metal safely and legally. These sites accept both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, and some offer cash for recyclable materials.
City-Run Facilities
McLeod Road Transfer Station
5000 L.B. McLeod Road, Orlando, FL 32811
Hours: Mon–Sat, 8 AM–5 PM
Accepts: Clean aluminum, steel, copper, brass, small appliances
Residential ID required; commercial drop-offs incur scale fees.
Orange County Landfill (Apopka Area)
12100 Young Pine Rd, Orlando, FL 32829
Hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–5 PM
Accepts a broad range of scrap metal items. Bring ID and proof of residency.
Local Scrap Metal Dealers in Orlando
GLE Scrap Metal – Casselberry
295 Lyman Road, Casselberry, FL 32707
Full-service recycling for aluminum, copper, steel, brass, and more. Offers containers and bulk pickup for industrial clients.
Website: glescrap.com
Trademark Metals Recycling
51 E Landstreet Rd, Orlando, FL 32824
Accepts both ferrous and non-ferrous materials; well-suited for residential and commercial scrap recycling.
Website: tmrecycling.com
Orlando Metal Recycling
5146 Big Cypress St, Orlando, FL 32811
Convenient local yard that takes aluminum, brass, lead, stainless steel, and copper. Offers fast service and competitive rates.
Website: orlandometalrecycling.com
Scrap Systems, Inc. HQ
2600 W Washington St, Orlando, FL 32805
Focuses on commercial and industrial scrap metal management. Call ahead for material-specific requirements.
Website: scrapsystems.net
STS Electronic Recycling, Inc.
941 W Morse Blvd, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32789
Specializes in non-ferrous metal recycling (aluminum, insulated wire, copper). Cash payments available.
Website: stselectronicrecyclinginc.com
Residential vs. Commercial Drop-Offs
Residential drop-offs are usually free with ID and proof of address.
Commercial users may face per-pound fees and must meet DOT and facility handling standards.
3. Rent a Dumpster for Bulk Scrap Metal
A dumpster is ideal for demolition projects, industrial cleanouts, or when scrap volume exceeds curbside or personal transport capacity.
When to Rent:
Roof, fencing, or shed removals
Multiple large metal items or mixed renovation debris
Commercial site cleanups
Metal Types Allowed:
Ferrous (steel, iron) and non-ferrous (aluminum, copper, brass) — confirm with provider if mixed metals are accepted
Recommended Sizes:
10-yard: Small cleanouts
15-yard: Mid-size demolition (sheds, roofing)
20-yard+: Construction, multi-room clearouts
Local Providers:
Bin There Dump That Dumpster Rental
Tel: 321-405-2838
Elgins Dumpsters Orlando
Tel: (407) 216-2324
Ask if metal-only dumpsters are available for lower recycling fees.
4. Hire a Scrap Metal Removal Service
Professional removal is best for:
Seniors or disabled homeowners
Apartment dwellers
HOA-restricted communities
Businesses without hauling capacity
What They Take:
Old appliances, pipes, siding, HVAC units
Commercial or industrial scrap
Electronics and wires (in bulk)
Top Local Services:
Junk King Orlando
3038 John Young Pkwy Unit 32, Orlando, FL 32804
Tel: 407-284-4899
Pricing:
Starts around $90 per load
Based on volume, weight, and item type
Save by consolidating metal in one location (e.g., garage or driveway)
Tip: Request an estimate with photos via text/email to avoid surprises.
Understanding Ferrous vs. Non-Ferrous Metals
Importance for sorting and regulatory compliance
Common examples of each and disposal methods
Choosing the Right Scrap Metal Disposal Method in Orlando
Choosing the best way to dispose of scrap metal in Orlando depends on how much metal you have, where it’s located, the type of metal, and how quickly you need it gone. Use the table below to find the most practical and compliant disposal method for your situation.
| Disposal Method | Best For | Accepted Metals | Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curbside Pickup | Small residential items, cans, lightweight scrap | Clean aluminum, tin, small steel parts | Free (w/ limits) | Easy—leave curbside on scheduled days |
| Drop-Off Locations | Households or businesses with light to moderate scrap | Ferrous & non-ferrous (cleaned) | Mostly Free | Requires transport, open daily |
| Dumpster Rental | Renovations, bulk cleanouts, construction debris | Mixed metals (check provider rules) | Moderate–High (by size) | High-capacity, multi-day use, driveway access needed |
| Scrap Metal Removal Services | Urgent pickups, seniors, HOA-restricted areas | Large appliances, mixed scrap, vehicles | $90–$250 per load | Full-service pickup, ideal for limited mobility |
| Scrap Dealers (Sell for Cash) | Anyone looking to make money from recycling | High-value metals: copper, brass, aluminum | Paid per lb. | Must transport & separate metals |
Environmental and Legal Considerations for Scrap Metal Disposal
Proper scrap metal disposal protects the environment, prevents fines, and supports local recycling infrastructure. Improper handling of scrap metals—especially those containing hazardous materials—can contaminate soil, water, and air.
Why Responsible Scrap Metal Disposal Matters
Environmental Hazards: Metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium can leach into the ecosystem from untreated items like electronics, batteries, or painted materials.
Legal Penalties: Dumping metal illegally or mixing it with household waste may result in fines from Orlando Code Enforcement or Orange County Solid Waste Division.
Recycling Efficiency: Proper sorting (ferrous vs. non-ferrous) ensures clean recycling streams and increases the reuse of valuable materials like copper, aluminum, and steel.
City of Orlando & Orange County Regulations
Mixed waste is prohibited: Scrap metals must be separated from organic or hazardous waste.
Treated metals and refrigerants must be drained or handled according to EPA and local codes.
Proof of residency is often required at public drop-off sites.
Appliance disposal: Units like fridges or ACs require refrigerant removal before pickup or drop-off.
Business compliance: Industrial generators of scrap must track disposal volumes and use licensed recyclers.
Visit the City of Orlando Solid Waste Division or Orange County Environmental Protection Division for guidelines.
