Household Hazardous Waste

Household hazardous waste (HHW) materials are banned from the garbage and should not be placed down the drain or in the natural environment. If disposed of incorrectly, toxic materials can harm aquatic life, destroy sensitive ecosystems and pollute recreational sites and water supplies. Examples of HHW include batteries, paints, solvents, pesticides, gasoline, oil, and antifreeze, as well as pharmaceuticals.

Summer Waste Safety Tips

Spending time outdoors or in the pool this summer? Whether we realize it or not, many of our summertime activities can contribute to landfill fires if we’re not careful. 

  1. Camping/BBQing – Be sure to safely store your propane tanks and cylinders and properly dispose of them at a drop-off depot once you’re done.
  2. E-biking – It’s important that when e-bike batteries reach their end-of-life, they are recycled responsibly at one of 75 locations in the region that accept batteries for recycling.
  3. Relaxing in the pool or hot tub – Maintaining pools and hot tubs involves chemicals that are safe when used properly, but can cause fires if disposed of incorrectly. Return all pool chemicals to the Hartland Depot for free. 

Drop-off Locations

HHW can be safely disposed of at the Hartland Depot for free, or you can search for the item on myrecyclopedia.ca to find a list of alternate drop-off locations.

How should I transport my HHW items?

HHW products require safe, responsible handling. They should be transported in their original labelled container, sealed and upright. Use secondary packaging to contain leaky containers. Do not mix wastes.

For specific instructions on how to drop HHW off at the Hartland Depot, click here. 

I live on an island, are there rules about transporting HHW items on BC Ferries?

Visit the BC Ferries website form information regarding transportation of dangerous goods on their sailings.

How can I reduce my use of hazardous materials?

Whenever possible, use alternatives. For example, vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural alternatives to chemical cleaners.

If you must purchase hazardous products, limit the amount you buy, properly store what you don’t use, and dispose of excess materials appropriately at facilities like Hartland Depot and those listed in myrecyclopedia.ca.

More information on alternatives:

Pollution prevention:

Why can't I put hazardous materials in the garbage or down the drain?

HHW is dangerous to people, pets and the environment. If hazardous wastes are put in the garbage or poured into the sewer or storm drain, they create environmental and public health hazards.

If disposed of incorrectly, toxic materials can harm aquatic life, destroy sensitive ecosystems and pollute recreational sites and water supplies. They may be unsafe for sewage or garbage operators and can damage equipment.

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