Many common household items can be dangerous if disposed of improperly. These items are called Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and include certain paints, cleaners, varnishes, car batteries, motor oil, and pesticides.

Anything with an electronic chip may be brought to the HHW Center. Old electronics, like computers, monitors, CPUs, fax machines, televisions, radios, copy machines, printers, and cell phones, may also pose a hazard when disposed of improperly. These items contain toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury that can contaminate the environment. These items are commonly called e-waste. 

When disposed of improperly, HHW and e-waste can create a potential risk to people, the City's water system, and the environment. These items should never be mixed with your regular household trash.

Sometimes it may be difficult to determine if a product you are using is potentially hazardous and requires special disposal. Electronic devices are almost always hazardous. Consumable HHW products will frequently have one or more of the following symbols and cautionary words on the label.

Labels that say "danger" are the most hazardous. Products that do not have any of these words are the least hazardous. When deciding to buy a product, purchase the least hazardous available.  
 
Residents may bring hazardous products to the HHW center at no charge for proper disposal.