The city of Lancaster, in collaboration with CalRecycle, will host a free hazardous waste collection event tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the city’s Maintenance Yard, 615 West Avenue H.
Household waste such as used cooking oil, paint, and vehicle oils and fluids will only be accepted until noon.
Residents are encouraged to simply drive up to the location and drop off such items because it is illegal to place hazardous waste in trash bins. Placing such items at the curbside for trash collection can be detrimental to the environment. E-waste such as computers, TV sets, stereos, electronic gadgets etc. will also be accepted.
Only households, not businesses, may drop off their hazardous waste. Also, it is illegal to transport more than 15 gallons or 125 pounds of hazardous waste. Containers should be leakproof and secure during transport in order to avoid spilling. Do not mix household hazardous waste (i.e. chemicals like bleach and ammonia or insecticides) together. While dropping off, you must remain in your vehicle and allow staff to unload the waste. Eating, drinking or smoking is prohibited in the household hazardous waste receiving, handling or storage areas.
Common household hazardous waste items include acids, cleaners, pesticides, aerosols, degreasers, polishes, batteries, fertilizers, pool chemicals, brake fluid, fuels, solvents, bleach, paint strippers and waxes. Although household hazardous waste items are not regularly accepted at the city’s 24-hour Recycling Center, it is open seven days a week for recycling used motor oil, oil filters, cooking oil, labeled paint and antifreeze. The center will also accept used, broken or obsolete TV sets, computers and vacuum cleaners—basically anything with a cord or requiring a battery.
The city of Lancaster will not accept ammunition, explosives/fireworks, pharmaceutical waste, medical/biological waste, radioactive waste, sharp items like needles, tires or furniture. Inquire about bringing stoves, refrigerators, freezers, water heaters, washing machines or dryers.
For more details, call (661) 723-5885.
