Common Questions

Many products found in your home are potentially hazardous waste. They contain chemical compounds that can poison, corrode, explode, or ignite when handled improperly. When discarded, they may pose a threat to health, safety and the environment. Look for the signal words on the product label: CAUTION, WARNING, DANGER, POISON.

Some examples include:

• leftover adhesives
• lawn chemicals
• paint thinner
• leftover/old gas
• paint strippers
• wood and metal cleaners
• pool chemicals
• oven cleaners
• drain openers
• fluorescent tubes (all sizes/types)
• lighter fluids
• wood preservatives
• insecticides
• herbicides
• fungicides
• rat poisons
• aerosol sprays
• mercury thermometers/thermostats
• paint and adhesive solvents

Although already handled by the private sector, the facility will also accept antifreeze, auto batteries, used oil and oil filters in order to provide a “one-stop-shop”.

Most of these products do not usually have the word “hazardous” written on them, but they are often toxic, flammable, corrosive or reactive – all characteristics of hazardous waste.

HHW products are sometimes disposed of improperly by individuals pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or putting them out with the trash. The dangers of such disposal methods may not be immediately obvious, but certain types of HHW have the potential to:

• Cause physical injury to sanitation workers
• Contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems if poured down drains or toilets
• Pollute rivers, lakes, and streams if poured into storm sewers
• Present hazards to children and pets if left around the house
• Contaminate ground water and surface water that is used as a source of drinking water

All residents of Douglas and Sarpy Counties will be eligible: households only. No waste from farms, businesses, offices, schools or institutions will be accepted.

HHW is categorized, consolidated and temporarily stored in preparation for transport to HHW recycling, treatment or disposal facilities. These facilities are licensed to environmentally dispose of or recycle HHW.

Each item should be kept in its original container. If it is not in its original container, it should be labeled. Never mix two household chemicals in the same container. Check lids and tops to prevent leaks and spills. During transportation to the facility, placing the containers in a lined box is suggested.

We do not want to duplicate services that are already available. Generally, tire and appliance retailers accept the old items as an extension of their service and dispose of them for a nominal fee. The primary purpose for the facility will be the management of our community’s HHW, unless the public expresses other desires and commensurate funding is identified.

Empty containers that held HHW can be placed in the garbage or recycled where available and allowed. Containers are considered empty when all contents which can be practically removed, have been removed.

No, we recommend contacting your pharmacy for medication drop off locations.

No, we recommend contacting one of the fire and safety companies in the area.