How to Get Rid of a Trailer - Sacramento, California

Spencer Farman • March 5, 2025

Key Highlights

  1. Disposing of a trailer in California, especially in densely populated areas like Sacramento, requires careful consideration of local regulations and environmental concerns.
  2. Trailers often contain hazardous waste and materials that need specific disposal methods, making it crucial to follow proper procedures.
  3. Thankfully, Sacramento, CA, offers various options for trailer disposal, recycling, and donation, catering to different needs.
  4. Before discarding your trailer, it’s crucial to properly prepare it by removing all personal belongings and hazardous waste.
  5. Considering recycling or donating your trailer can contribute to a greener Sacramento and minimize your environmental impact.


So, you have an old trailer taking up space on your property in sunny Sacramento, CA? It may be an RV, a utility trailer, or a camper. Eventually, these items have a life span. When that happens, it’s good to know what to do and how to handle the disposal process properly.



Throwing away your trailer the wrong way can cause environmental problems. This can happen because of possible hazardous waste like batteries, oil, and old fuel. Plus, no one wants to see a rusty trailer sitting on the side of the road, right? Fortunately, Sacramento has a few legal and eco-friendly ways to dispose of your unwanted trailer.

Trailer Disposal in Sacramento County: What You Need to Know

Sacramento County has rules for trailer disposal. These rules help keep everyone safe and protect the environment. Before you take apart your old trailer, make sure you understand these guidelines.

You need to know where to take various types of waste, including tractor tires and other bulky materials. It is also important to understand any permit needs and to pick a certified disposal facility. Doing these things will help you avoid wasting time and money.


Rules and Regulations for Trailer Disposal


Sacramento County has important rules for hazardous waste that may be in your trailer. Items like batteries, paints, solvents, and some cleaning products must go to special hazardous waste facilities for proper disposal.

Also, treated wood waste, which is often in older trailers, can have chemicals that need special care. You should check the Sacramento County website or call the local waste management office for more information about hazardous waste and treated wood waste disposal.


Following these rules is not just about avoiding fines. It helps keep our community and environment safe from harmful materials. Responsible disposal is good for everyone.


Why Proper Disposal Matters for the Environment


Proper trailer disposal is more than just cleaning up. It also helps the environment. By following the right steps, we can support a healthier and more sustainable Sacramento. Here’s how:


  1. Preventing Contamination: Throwing away hazardous waste the wrong way can pollute soil and water. This can hurt ecosystems and people’s health.
  2. Conserving Resources: Many parts of trailers, like metals and some plastics, can be recycled. This helps save valuable resources and cuts down the need for new materials.
  3. Reducing Landfill Space: Landfills have a limited amount of space. By recycling and reusing materials, we can make them last longer and lessen our impact on the environment.


When we dispose of our trailers the right way, we show we care about the environment. We also help build a better future for everyone.


Where to Give Your Old Trailer a Second Life


Let’s be honest—an old, unwanted trailer can look really bad. Before you think about leaving it in an empty lot (please don’t do that), remember that Sacramento County has many recycling places to take it from you. A great option? The GreenWaste Florin Perkins Recovery Center. They focus on recycling construction waste and usually will take old trailers for processing.

What happens next? Your trailer is taken apart like a puzzle upside down. Metal, wood, and plastic are sorted carefully. They are saved and reused instead of being thrown in a landfill. It’s a good situation: your land is clear, and useful materials get a new life.


Trailers That Can Be Recycled


Not all trailers are the same, but most recycling centers will accept different types. Always ask the center first, but most of the time, these trailers are accepted:


Utility Trailers: These tough trailers are great for carrying tools, landscaping items, or other loads. They are good options for recycling. Because they are mostly metal, they can be broken down into materials that can be reused.

Travel Trailers: Travel trailers are bigger and bulkier. They can be tricky to handle, but they are still useful. Facilities take them apart, one part at a time. They save the frames, wiring, and some inside fixtures. Then, they recycle the rest.

Construction Trailers: These trailers are strong and made with a lot of metal. They fit well in a recycling center. Their frames, walls, and roofs can be melted down and made into something new—perhaps even another trailer.


If that old trailer in your yard is just a problem and not useful, don’t leave it there any longer. Look for a local recycling center, give them a call, and let the experts handle it. Both your property and the Earth will appreciate it.

Trailer Type Recyclable Components
Utility Trailers Metal frame, axles, wheels, some plastic components
Travel Trailers Metal frame, appliances (if removed separately), some interior components
Construction Trailers Metal frame, siding, roofing materials

Remember, contacting the facility beforehand is always best to confirm their acceptance policy.


How to Prep Your Trailer for Recycling


Before you take your trailer to the recycling spot, there are a few important steps to follow. This will help make sure it gets accepted.



  1. First, take out all your items. This includes the old fishing gear and any camping supplies you may have forgotten. It’s time to clear them out!
  2. Next, find and sort out any dangerous waste. This includes things like batteries, propane tanks, oil filters, and old paint cans. In Sacramento, household hazardous waste centers can safely take these items for disposal.
  3. Make sure the trailer is clean. Remove any trash, debris, or loose materials. You don’t need to make it perfect, but keeping it somewhat clean helps the recycling process.

How to Sell Your Trailer Fast

If your trailer is in good condition, selling it could be a good idea. You can list it on sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or other RV and trailer websites. Highlight its features and include clear photos. This can help grab the attention of buyers.

To sell it faster, think about setting a fair price or making a package deal if you are selling a vehicle that can tow it too. Make sure you have all the papers, and be honest about the trailer’s condition. This will help the sale go smoother.


Choosing the Best Disposal Option


Residents in Sacramento have several ways to get rid of unwanted trailers. The best choice depends on the trailer's condition, your budget, and how important the environment is to you.


If your trailer is damaged, recycling or demolition could be a good choice. There are many places in Sacramento that can handle the materials properly. These are,


  1. Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station
  2. GreenWaste Florin Perkins Resource Recovery Facility
  3. Kiefer Landfill
  4. North Area Recovery Station



Selling your trailer might give you some money. Donating it can help a good cause and support people in need.

In the end, making a wise and careful choice for getting rid of trailers can help keep Sacramento, CA clean and green.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, getting rid of your trailer the right way follows the rules and helps the environment. In Sacramento County, you have options for recycling and quick ways to sell your trailer. You can choose to recycle or donate your trailer to help both the environment and the community. Always remember that responsible disposal practices can lead to a cleaner future for everyone.


Need to get rid of an old trailer in Sacramento?



At Demo Patrol, we make trailer removal simple and hassle-free. Be it an old utility trailer, a damaged RV, or a mobile home, we handle everything—from pickup to proper disposal. Get a free quote today and let’s clear your space the right way.

How to Dispose of a Trailer in Sacramento, California - FAQs

  • Where can I dispose of an old trailer in Sacramento?

    There are many ways to get rid of trailers - like recycling centers, landfills, and donation programs. Some places take trailers as scrap, but others might want you to take them apart first. It’s a good idea to ask the disposal site about their rules before you go.

  • Can I throw away a trailer with other large waste like furniture or mattresses?

    Some disposal places allow you to drop off trailers with big items like appliances and box springs next to them, but the rules can change. If your trailer has different types of materials, like wood or drywall, it might need to be handled differently. Calling the facility beforehand can help you know their rules and any extra costs.

  • Are there rules about what can stay in a trailer before it is thrown away?

    Yes, most disposal sites need trailers to be empty before you drop them off. Food waste, pallets, tree trimmings, and sludge are usually not allowed inside. To prevent extra charges, make sure to take out all the stuff and clean the trailer before you bring it in for disposal.

  • Can objects made of asphalt or clean concrete be recycled?

    Things made of asphalt or concrete may need special care. These materials can often be recycled in a different way. Some places will take them as construction debris, but others might not handle trailers with a lot of debris. It’s key to ask about the rules of the recycling facility to make sure you don't bring material they don't accept.

  • Can I recycle a trailer with extensive damage?

    Many recycling places in Sacramento, CA, will take trailers. This is true even if the trailers are quite damaged. It can change based on the location and how serious the damage is.

  • Is there a fee to dispose of trailers in Sacramento County?

    Disposal fees for trailers in Sacramento County, CA, vary by location. They also depend on the trailer's size and weight. It is a good idea to reach out to the place directly to get the right prices.

  • I want to know how I can make sure my trailer gets accepted for donation.

    It is important to reach out to the charity to find out how they accept donations for trailers. They will tell you any rules or limits they may have.

  • What paperwork do you need to dispose of a trailer?

    When you want to remove a trailer in Sacramento, CA, you must have the right documents, like a title or registration. The way you decide to dispose of it might also require more paperwork.

  • What parts of a trailer can be recycled?

    A surprising amount! Metal waste from the frame, axles, and siding gets reused, while household appliances like stoves and fridges can often be saved. Even lumber from floors or walls may get a second chance. Always ask your local recycling center for details.

  • 10. Are you licensed and insured for knocking down structures in California?

    Yes, we’re fully licensed and insured for demo jobs in California, including areas like Placer County, Rocklin, and Folsom. Our team follows state and local rules to make sure your project is completed safely and up to code.

How to Get Rid of a Trailer Fast in Sacramento, CA
By Spencer Farman March 5, 2025
Need to remove an old mobile home in Sacramento, CA? Learn about permits, disposal options, and how Demo Patrol offers safe, affordable removal.
A white trailer is sitting on a wooden pallet with the words mobile home removal made easy above it.
By Spencer Farman March 5, 2025
Need to remove an old mobile home in Sacramento, CA? Learn about permits, disposal options, and how Demo Patrol offers safe, affordable removal.
A pile of wood is sitting in the dirt next to a truck.
By Spencer Farman March 5, 2025
Discover top tips for choosing reliable house demolition companies near Sacramento. Learn what to look for in a trusted contractor and more!
By Spencer Farman January 7, 2025
If you're planning a demolition project, there’s a silent danger you can’t afford to ignore: Asbestos This hazardous material was widely used in building construction throughout the 20th century and can still be found in older homes, commercial buildings, and even industrial sites. While it’s harmless when undisturbed, demolition activities can release dangerous asbestos fibers into the air, which can cause serious health risks like mesothelioma , to workers, property owners, and nearby residents Let’s explore the risks of asbestos exposure during demolition projects, and more importantly, how to prevent issues from arising on your job site.
By Spencer Farman January 3, 2025
You probably always hear from salesman and contractors all the great successful projects they've done. Have you ever heard someone list out all the bad things that could happen? We have made a list of everything we've seen go wrong, and how to properly prepare your project for as many issues as you possibly can. At the end the day, even with perfect planning, things go wrong! It is important to make sure you are flexible just in case. Here are four of the most common issues demolition projects face.
By Spencer Farman January 3, 2025
Hiring a licensed demolition contractor is essential for ensuring a safe, efficient, and legally compliant demolition process. Here are several key reasons to choose a licensed professional:
By Spencer Farman December 17, 2024
Whether you're tearing down a small shed in your backyard, or demolishing a three story apartment building, the question of permits and how they work must come up. In this article we will discuss some of the different types of permits, the factors that go into needing them, and how to obtain them!
A pile of rubble with a sink and a bulldozer in the background.
By Spencer Farman July 22, 2024
Find the perfect demolition contractor for your mobile home with our expert tips and advice. Ensure a smooth and successful demolition process.
A yellow excavator is demolishing a house.
By Spencer Farman July 22, 2024
Discover the top 5 reasons why professional mobile home demolition services are the best choice for your project. Trust the experts for a hassle-free experience
Share by: