Hazardous Waste Disposal Options FAQ
Hazardous waste is never allowed in NC Dumpster Rentals dumpsters—it's a safety and legal no-go. From paints and batteries to chemicals and oils, these materials require special handling to protect health and the environment. North Carolina offers robust options for safe disposal, whether you're a homeowner or business. We'll cover the essentials as of 2025; always verify with local authorities for your area.
1. What counts as hazardous waste in North Carolina?
Hazardous waste includes any material that poses a threat due to its chemical, physical, or biological properties. For households (HHW), it's leftover products from everyday use; for businesses, it's generated from operations like manufacturing or construction. Common categories: ignitable (e.g., gasoline), corrosive (e.g., drain cleaners), reactive (e.g., bleach), and toxic (e.g., pesticides).
2. What are common hazardous waste items I might have?
Household examples: Paints/thinners, cleaners, batteries, pesticides, motor oil, antifreeze, pharmaceuticals, aerosols, and fluorescent bulbs.
Business examples: Solvents, inks, lab chemicals, contaminated rags, and industrial cleaners. Electronics and medical waste often fall here too—check DEQ guidelines for specifics.
3. How do households dispose of hazardous waste in NC?
Free or low-cost options abound:
- Permanent Collection Centers: Over 20 counties host year-round facilities (e.g., Wake County's three sites for residents only; Guilford County's center in Greensboro at 2750 Patterson St., open Saturdays). Search DEQ's list for your county.
- Temporary Events: One-day collections like Johnston County's April 26, 2025 event at the Livestock Arena; Iredell's monthly Saturdays; or Dare County's May 2025 multi-site event. Counties like Chatham require decals starting July 2025.
- Other: Auto shops for oil; pharmacies for meds. No HHW in regular trash or dumpsters!
4. What are disposal options for businesses?
Businesses must follow EPA/DEQ generator rules based on volume (VSQG for very small, SQG for small, LQG for large). Options include:
- Certified Haulers: Companies like HWH Environmental or Clean Harbors for pickup, transport, and disposal—fast and compliant statewide.
- County Events: Mecklenburg's collections for qualifying small businesses (VSQGs).
- Permitted Facilities: Use DEQ's forms for storage/transport; options like incineration or recycling for solvents. Free quotes from experts in Raleigh or Greensboro.
Register as a generator via DEQ if needed.
5. Tips for safe handling and avoiding penalties?
- Store in original containers, labeled, away from kids/pets; never mix chemicals.
- Reduce waste: Buy only what you need, use alternatives (e.g., vinegar for cleaning).
- Penalties: Fines up to $50,000+ per violation; illegal dumping harms waterways.
- For projects, plan ahead—sort hazmat before dumpster delivery.
Have more questions? Browse our full FAQ page or call us at (336) 447-6711 for personalized advice. We're here to make your cleanup safe and compliant!