WM's Austin Community Landfill on Giles Lane prices by the size of what you bring rather than by a flat gate fee, and two additions ride on top of the base figure: a fuel surcharge, and a state-mandated environmental fee set by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that itself scales with load size.

High-visibility clothing is compulsory, not advisory. Every customer, and anyone helping them unload, must wear a safety vest while disposing of waste. Bring your own or buy one on site from WM for five dollars plus tax — a small cost, but one that surprises people who arrive in a t-shirt on a hot Austin afternoon.

Payment is uncomplicated: credit and debit cards are accepted here.

The refusal list is where a wasted journey hides. The site will not take batteries, liquids of any kind, household chemicals, paint, motor oil, used oil filters, computers, fluorescent light bulbs, or anything else classed as hazardous.

Appliances are the big one. Freezers, refrigerators and air conditioning units cannot be landfilled here at all. WM directs customers to CMC Metal at 1704 Howard Lane instead, reachable on 512-442-2384, which is a separate trip across the city rather than a detour on arrival.

Plan the load accordingly. Sort the fridge and the paint tins out before you leave home, wear something visible, and the rest of the visit is a simple weigh-and-tip.