Is your garage cluttered with old batteries, expired medicines, and ancient camcorders that you know you can’t just put in your normal trash can, but have no idea how to get rid of?

Wonder no longer. Here’s our guide to disposing of hazardous waste in Marion County.

Household hazardous waste

Hazardous waste applies to a slew of items that should not be put in trash cans or flushed down the toilet. These products are often marked with words like “caution,” “toxic,” “flammable,” or “warning.” Some examples of hazardous waste items are batteries, detergents, gasoline, and glue — see the full list.

Get rid of hazardous waste safely by bringing it to a ToxDrop event. These occur every month, with the exception of major holidays:

First Saturday of each month, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Traders Point Collection Facility
7550 N. Lafayette Rd.
Second Saturday of each month, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Perry Township Government Center
4925 S. Shelby St.

Make sure you don’t leave waste at either site when it is closed — this is illegal dumping and can cost you up to $2,500 in fines.

You can dispose of 20 gallons of liquid waste or 75 pounds of solid waste per ToxDrop visit. Waste must be contained in plastic crates, cardboard boxes, storage bins, or other containers that are easy to see through and access — waste in trash bags may get sent back home with you.

Electronics

As of 2011, it’s illegal to dispose of TVs, computers, printers, cameras, and other electronics through your normal trash. See the full list of prohibited items.

Instead, you can get rid of electronics at a ToxDrop event. If you need more schedule flexibility, you may also drop off electronics at RecycleForce, which accepts drop offs between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Its services are free with the exception of TVs, monitors, and refrigerant-bearing and HVAC items, which incur a small fee.

Medications

Dozens of pharmacies across the city accept unwanted or expired mediations. Type in your zip code here to see participating locations, along with descriptions of what items they accept — for instance, some do not accept aerosols or inhalers. When in doubt, call ahead.

Medical sharps

Syringes, lancets, auto-injectors, needles, and needle connectors that are contained within a sealed sharps container can be taken to one of three locations in the city, thanks to the free Marion County Public Health Department Sharps Disposal Program.

Paint

As a hazardous waste item, paint can be disposed of at a ToxDrop event. If it’s not dried up, you can also consider donating it to a local school or theater group.

Is there another specific item you’re wondering how to get rid of safely? Send us an email and we’ll look into it for you.