What is Household Hazardous Waste?

Any product, chemical or material that can cause injury to people or harm to the environment when disposed is considered hazardous. When chemicals are disposed of improperly, they can pollute our air or water or harm wildlife, plant life, and food supplies. Remember, many of these products can also pose dangers when used or misused so always read and follow the directions.

Hazardous materials can be found in many different areas of your home - under the sink, out by the pool, and in the garage. Examples include automotive products, rechargeable batteries, propane tanks, fluorescent bulbs, paint products, pesticides, household cleaners, pool chemicals, and electronics.

Where can I take my leftover paint and home chemicals?

Household hazardous wastes are accepted at the SWA’s main HHW facility and at all SWA transfer station drop-off sites. The main facility is staffed while the transfer stations sites are self service only. There may be limitations on quantities accepted at the unattended transfer station drop-off sites.

Is there a cost?

There is no user cost for household hazardous wastes. This program is funded by the Solid Waste Authority as an operating expense.

Is leftover paint considered hazardous?

Oil base paints and related products such as mineral spirits, paint thinners, shellacs and varnishes are often flammable or combustible. Latex, or water based paints, can create unsightly spills and messes when compacted in garbage trucks. All paints are accepted at SWA HHW sites.

What can I do with leftover latex paint?

Latex paint (water-based) can be dried out and then thrown away in your garbage. Remove the lid, add sand, cat litter, or saw dust, and leave uncovered to dry. Leave the lid off and put in your regular garbage.

Empty cans or product containers can be thrown away in your regular garbage. Remove the lid or cap so that it can be seen as empty. Remember, if they are clean, many plastic or metal containers can be recycled.

Where can I take used motor oil?

Used motor oil can be taken to any of our convenient drop-off locations during regular business hours. Many auto parts stores, service stations, and oil change shops also accept used motor oil. Call the Used Oil Hotline at 800-741-4337, or check Earth911.org for locations nearest you.

Why are fluorescent bulbs hazardous?

All fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, which is easily released to the environment when broken. Mercury is a toxic metal that affects fish and wildlife and potentially anyone that consumes contaminated fish or wildlife. All SWA HHW sites accept fluorescent lamps. Most Home Depots also accept compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL’s).

Are all batteries hazardous?

No. In fact, common single use batteries such as alkaline batteries can be placed in your garbage. However, rechargeable batteries (Ni-cad, lithium, button size) must be disposed of properly. All of our HHW facilities accept rechargeable batteries.

Many retailers also accept rechargeable batteries For additional locations, call (800) 8-BATTERY or check earth911.org.

I have old gasoline from my boat or generator. What should I do with it?

Small quantities of fuel (10 gallons or less) in sealed, labeled containers may be taken to any HHW facility. Containers left at the unattended transfer station drop-off sites cannot be returned. Containers can only be emptied and returned to you at the main HHW Facility on N. Jog Rd during regular business hours.

Large quantities are accepted only at the main HHW Facility on N. Jog Rd. The fuel must be from your own, personal use boat or generator. Please note: We do not allow siphoning on our property, nor will we empty a drum for you.

How can I dispose of a boat?

Boats can be disposed in the landfill only and are not accepted at transfer stations. All hazardous materials such as fuel, flares, batteries, must be removed prior to delivery and all boats must be inspected before being admitted to the landfill. Check our Disposal Guide for more information or call (561) 687-1100.

What items don’t you accept?

Medical wastes, syringes or sharps, drugs, radioactive materials, and explosives. However we can guide you to other resources and assistance.

What is e-Waste?

Electronic products and components are often called e-Waste when discarded. E-Waste includes computers, printers, monitors, televisions, audio equipment, cell phones and any other similar type of item with electronic circuit boards.

Are electronics hazardous?

Electronics often contain small amounts of hazardous materials such as mercury and lead that are completely safe within the product but may pose environmental risks when disposed. Fortunately electronics are also easily recycled.

What can I do with e-Waste?

E-waste is accepted at all of our HHW sites. In addition most computer manufacturers and retailers have their own take-back programs. These programs vary widely so contact the product manufacturer or the retailer where you purchased it, or the retailer you are going to purchase your next product. Also check our disposal guide for other options.

I have a business that has small amounts of hazardous waste. What do I do?

The SWA has a fee-based program for what are known as "conditionally exempt small quantity generators" (CESQG). You must complete and submit an application and an inventory of your material must be received before you can schedule a delivery. For more information on this program see the Small Business disposal area in this website or call (561) 687-1100.

Florida law requires that we post the following statement:

"Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records.  If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity.  Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing."

The Solid Waste Authority regrets any inconvenience this may cause.