The Refuse Crew is unable to collect household hazardous waste, such as motor oil, oil filters, paint, batteries, antifreeze and other automotive products, pesticides, household cleaners, pool chemicals, fluorescent tubes, items containing mercury such as thermometers and thermostats, home medical wastes such as sharps/needles, and electronic waste (e-waste).
The Orange County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers accept all of the above items. Their hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.. There are convenient locations in Irvine, Huntington Beach, San Juan Capistrano, and Anaheim.
Electronic waste includes computers, monitors, laptops, televisions, fax machines, radios, and cell phones. The City periodically hosts e-waste collection events to make recycling more accessible to residents. To recycle these items, please call (949) 644-3055 or visit Earth911 for other local recycling opportunities.
It is illegal to dispose of sharps (syringes, needles, lancets, etc) in the trash. Local pharmacies or hospitals likely do not accept sharps either. More information on the proper disposal of these items is available through the State and County. The Sharps and Medication Disposal Directory will help you locate facilities nearby.
Residents may dispose of their batteries at selected City facilities. Bring your batteries individually wrapped in plastic bags or cover both ends of each battery with stickers, and place them in the “Big Green Box” at the following locations: City Hall, Central Library, Mariners Library, Newport Coast Community Center and Oasis Senior Center.