Medical Waste & Sharps
Disposal Rules
Needles, syringes, medical devices, and biohazard materials are prohibited from dumpsters. They pose serious health risks to hauler workers and landfill employees. Special containers and disposal methods are required.
Pro Tip
Place sharps in FDA-cleared sharps containers. Never throw loose needles in any trash container.
What to Do Instead
Pharmacies and hospitals accept sharps containers. Many mail-back sharps disposal services are also available.
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Paint (Latex & Oil-Based)
ProhibitedLiquid paint is prohibited from dumpsters. Oil-based paint is classified as hazardous waste. Latex paint must be dried out before disposal. Never pour paint down drains or into dumpsters in liquid form.
Batteries
ProhibitedBatteries of all types — alkaline, lithium-ion, lead-acid, and rechargeable — are prohibited from dumpsters. They can cause fires, leak acid, and contaminate landfills. Lithium-ion batteries are especially dangerous.
Tires
ProhibitedTires are universally prohibited from dumpsters and landfills in most states. They trap methane gas, breed mosquitoes, and are nearly impossible to compact. Separate disposal is required by law.
Motor Oil & Automotive Fluids
ProhibitedMotor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and antifreeze are hazardous waste and strictly prohibited from dumpsters. A single quart of oil can contaminate 250,000 gallons of water.