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HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE 

F.A.Q.

WHAT IS HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE (HHW)?

HHW materials compose much of what we have stored in our basements, garages, and/or sheds.  These materials have toxic, flammable or corrosive properties, but are not regulated at the residential level. They include: gasoline and other automotive fluids, oil based paints, stains and varnishes, pesticides/fertilizers/herbicides, and household cleaners to name a few.  If no longer needed, these items should be properly managed to prevent unwanted exposure or contamination. 

SINCE HHW CANNOT GO IN MY TRASH, HOW DO I DISPOSE OF IT?

Please note that ALL local waste collection contracts prohibit the collection of HHW and liquid wastes.  Niagara County hosts several collection events each year that allow residents to bring in these materials free of cost.  Event pre-registration is mandatory.  Sign-up for our mailing list to be notified of the dates, times and locations of the events. 

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WHAT DO I DO WITH LATEX PAINT?

Many of us have a few extra cans of latex paint in our basements that we thought we would need!  Latex paint is non-hazardous, but cannot be placed in the trash in a liquid form.  To dispose, remove the lid and allow to dry.  This works best when the can is half or less full.  Adding kitty litter or saw dust is also effective.  Once solid, these cans may be placed in your regular trash.  

It is anticipated in early 2022 that many drop off locations will open across Niagara County due to a recently passed law.  These lcoations will accept latex paint at no cost.

WHAT ITEMS ARE ACCEPTABLE AT THE HHW COLLECTION EVENT?

  • Oil-based Paint

  • Wood Stains and Preservatives

  • Automotive Fluids (Antifreeze, Brake, Power Steering and Transmission Fluids)

  • Pesticides and Fertilizers (both Solid and Liquid)

  • Flammable Products (Gasoline, Kerosene, Thinners, Strippers, Solvents, Glues, etc.)

  • Household Cleaners (Soaps, Waxes, Drain Cleaners, etc.)

  • Driveway and Roof Sealer

  • Pool and Photo Chemicals

  • Mercury (Thermometers, Thermostats)

  • Fluorescent Bulbs

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS TO ATTEND AN EVENT?

  • Must be a resident of Niagara County.

  • Only waste generated from homes is accepted.  Not-for-profits, and businesses are excluded.

  • Latex Paint cans must be full (please dry out and dispose of partially full cans).

  • There is a limit of 150-lbs per vehicle.

  • Alkaline Batteries, Motor Oil, Electronics and Explosives are NOT ACCEPTED.

  • All residents are required to pre-register online.

  • Fire Extinguishers, Smoke Detectors and Propane Tanks are subject to additional fees. 

WHAT IF I CAN'T MAKE IT TO AN EVENT?

Niagara County makes every attempt to conveniently schedule collection events.  If you cannot attend, we suggest you transport your materials at your convenience to Hazman (177 Wales Ave. Tonawanda). 

WHERE DOES ALL THE WASTE GO?

All material collected at events is brought back to a central location where it is sorted and sent off for final disposal or recycling.  Items are separated based on their composition and toxicity and sent to appropriate facilities for proper management, many of which are out of the area.  Common items such as latex paint and flammable materials are sent to a local incinerator, however this varies based on vendor. 

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