Hazardous Waste is any chemical substance or material that is flammable, toxic, chemically reactive, or caustic. These substances require special disposal because they pose serious risks to the environment and sanitation workers if they enter the waste stream or water supply. Never pour these substances down the drain, never throw these substances into the garbage.
Always make sure that you are properly storing these substances out of reach of children and pets and away from any heat sources or electrical outlets and wiring. Always keep these substances in their original container. There are many non-toxic alternatives to using common household cleaning products. We offer educational resources if you'd like to learn how.
Schenectady County hosts free, monthly collection events for residents of the county to safely dispose of their household chemicals.
Here's how the program works:
1) Purchase a permit to the County Recycling Facility before you come to a free HHW collection event. A permit is required to attend the free collection event. Permits cost $20 for the year and entitles you to many other services at the facility. To purchase a permit with the County Recycling Facility, bring cash and your vehicle registration to either the County Recycling Facility, 24 Hetcheltown Road in Glenville OR the County Office Building Finance Department, 3rd floor 620 State Street in Schenectady.
2) Sign up for an event by calling the CCE Recycling Educator during open registration period, which opens four days after the previous event and closes four days before the scheduled event. Or register online through the Schenectady County website. Registration is required.
3) Make sure you understand what materials are accepted at the event.
4) Keep all substances in their original container if possible or clearly label the contents of bottles.
These materials are still considered hazardous waste and special disposal programs do exist for these items. Call the Recycling Educator to request more information about these items
This program is for residents of Schenectady County only, limited to one carload per family. No waste from commercial, industrial, or institutional or non-profit generators is allowed. Call 386-2225 to request information about the County sponsored program for these generators.
All collection days are scheduled from 8am -noon. The May and October collection events take place at the Public Works 100 Kellar Ave in Rotterdam. All other collection events take place at the County Recycling Facility 24 Hetcheltown Rd in Glenville.
Last updated June 16, 2021