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It’s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they’re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.

Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.

While a rented dumpster can handle a wide variety of materials, there are significant restrictions on what is allowed. Generally, you can dispose of most non-hazardous household junk, yard waste, and construction debris.

Accepted items typically include:

• Furniture, carpets, old linens, and toys

• Wood and yard debris

• Small appliances and excess trash

• Renovation waste like old finishes, building debris, and roofing materials (unless they contain lead paint or asbestos)

However, you cannot put toxic, flammable, or hazardous materials in a dumpster. Prohibited items almost always include:

• Paint, gasoline, oil, and other fuels

• Household cleaners and other chemicals

• Electronics, batteries, and tires

• Refrigerators, hot water tanks, and medical waste

Since regulations can vary by location and company, it is essential to check with your dumpster rental provider for their specific list of accepted and prohibited items before you begin.

If debris from a tree located in a government-owned space (such as a sidewalk, public school, or government property) falls in your yard, it is the city’s or state government’s responsibility to have the debris cleaned up. On the other hand, most states only hold a neighbor liable for cleaning up their tree’s debris if they were negligent in caring for the tree.

Most mushrooms found on residential lawns are harmless. Certain varieties such as destroying angel, fly agaric, and vomiter mushrooms that can grow in grass will occasionally make their way onto residential lawn, but this is uncommon. Since mushrooms can be notoriously difficult to identify, if you suspect that your lawn mushrooms could be a poisonous type, consulting a professional is recommended.