Household Chemical Waste (HCW) refers to those products used in and around the house (not for industrial purposes) that can be harmful to people and the environment if not disposed of properly.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average home often accumulates as much as 100 pounds of HCW.
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Ignitable | Capable of rapidly burning or causing a fire |
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Corrosive | Capable of eating away materials and destroying living tissue when contact occurs |
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Explosive and/or Reactive | Capable of causing an explosion or releasing poisonous fumes when exposed to air, water or other chemicals |
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Toxic | Poisonous, either immediately or over a long period of time |
Proper Disposal
- Residential Household Chemical Waste (HCW) is accepted at the Topaz Court Solid Waste Facility HCW drop-off facility located at 6441 Topaz Court in Fort Myers, off Metro Parkway. This facility is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (New hours effective Sept. 2) and every first Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to noon (except holidays).
- Residents can also find local collection events hosted throughout the county. Drop off is an easy, drive through process available to all residents at no charge.
NEVER Dispose of Household Chemical Waste...
- In dumpsters, compactors or curbside
- In the household garbage for pick up by the garbage company
- Down a storm drain or into soil
PharmaceuticalsThe Lee County Solid Waste Department does NOT collect pharmaceuticals. Please call your local pharmacy or the Sheriff's office at 239-477-1000 for a drop-off location. |
What Isn't Household Chemical Waste?
- Empty paint cans
- Empty automotive fluid containers, etc.
- Small-engine equipment such as pressure washers, lawn mowers, weed eaters, etc.
- Small electronic parts such as routers, mice, keyboards, etc.
- Tires
- Small appliances
The items listed above can all be set out with your regular household garbage.