WASTE DISPOSAL FAQ's

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1. How do I dispose of my insulin needles?

Answer: Place used needles in a puncture proof container such as a detergent container. Seal the detergent container and label NON-RECYCLABLE SHARPS. Place container in garbage. DO NOT PLACE WITH RECYCLABLES.

2. Can I place my paint cans in the garbage?

Answer: Yes. Only empty paint cans or cans with hardened paint can be placed in the garbage. You must remove all covers before you place them in the garbage. Any liquid paint may be brought to the Household Hazardous Waste Management Facility.

3. What do I do with asbestos insulation material from my home?

Answer: Non-friable asbestos from residents such as siding and shingles are classified as construction and demolition debris and may be disposed of as such. (Non-friable asbestos is asbestos that can not be crumbled or crushed by hand pressure.) Friable asbestos generated by residents should be double bagged and placed with solid waste for collection by your solid waste hauler. Multi-family dwellings, businesses, commercial establishments, industries or institutions that generate friable asbestos should contact the New York State Department of Labor at 793-2351 before any removal.

4. What do I do with propane tanks?

Answer: All propane tanks (1 lb. to 100 lbs.) should be brought to the Residential Convenience Center in Utica or Rome. Empty propane tanks can also be disposed of at your Propane Gas Vendor.

5. What do I do with my household batteries?

Answer: Alkaline batteries can be safely discarded with household trash. All rechargeable batteries such as Nickel Cadmium should be brought to the Authority's Household Hazardous Waste Management Facility. These batteries are accepted from homeowners at no charge. Auto batteries are also accepted for recycling at no charge.

6. What do I do with my driveway sealer cans?

Answer: Empty or hardened driveway sealer cans should be disposed of in the garbage. Liquid driveway sealer cans may be brought during the months of April through September to the Utica Residential Convenience Station during the month of April through September.

7. What do I do with my old scrap tires?

Answer: Check with your local municipality or solid waste hauler for proper waste tire collection information. Your tires can also be delivered to the Residential Convenience Center. Check the fee schedule for current disposal price information. Individuals interested in delivering large volumes of tires should contact the office at 733-1224 or e-mail ohswa@ohswa.org for more information.

8. How do I dispose of fluorescent light bulbs?

Answer: It is legal for homeowners to dispose of fluorescent bulbs with their household trash. However, due to the mercury in these bulbs, we encourage homeowners to save them and deliver them to the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility at no charge. Bulbs collected through the program are processed and mercury is recovered preventing release to the environment.