Hazardous Waste
Proper disposal of hazardous waste is essential for protecting our health, environment, and community. Many hazardous household and business products can pose risks if not handled and disposed of correctly. Tacoma offers convenient resources to ensure hazardous materials are disposed of safely.
What is Household Hazardous Waste?
Household hazardous waste includes materials that are flammable, toxic, corrosive, or reactive. Common examples include:
- Paints and solvents
- Pesticides and fertilizers
- Cleaning chemicals
- Automotive fluids (e.g., oil, antifreeze)
- Batteries and fluorescent light bulbs
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal
Tacoma residents can safely dispose of hazardous waste at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility, located at Tacoma Recovery & Transfer Center:
- Location: 3510 S. Mullen Street, Tacoma, WA 98409
- Hours: Friday – Monday 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (closed Tuesday – Thursday)
- Cost: Free for Tacoma’s residential customers
Customers may dispose of up to 15 gallons or 220 pounds of household hazardous waste per visit, properly labeled and sealed. Other requirements include:
- Household hazardous waste must be properly disposed of and is not accepted as garbage.
- Ensure liquids are in sturdy, leak-proof containers.
- Check labels and understand the dangers of the chemicals before transporting them to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility.
- Place containers upright in boxes, ensuring they are clearly visible for technicians to unload.
- Avoid using plastic bags, as mixing household hazardous waste inside bags can create safety risks.
When visiting the facility, customers must drive-up, there is no walk-up or self-service allowed.
For unknown chemicals or questions, contact the facility at (253) 591-5418 for guidance.
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- Acids and caustics
- Antifreeze
- Automotive products
- Batteries (car, button, and household – alkaline, Ni-Cd, Ni-MH, and lithium)
- Flammable liquids
- Fluorescent bulbs and tubes
- Gas and fuel
- Glues
- Household cleaners
- Hypodermic needles or syringes (sealed inside a rigid container with a screw-top lid)
- Insecticides
- Mercury thermometers/thermostats
- Motor oil at the self-serve tank
- Oil-based paints (view paint disposal instructions)
- Pool chemicals
- Propane tanks
- Solvents
- Yard and garden chemicals
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- Ammunition and explosives
- Asbestos: accepted by appointment only for a fee at the Tacoma Recovery & Transfer Center, available to City of Tacoma residents only
- Commercial/business hazardous waste
- Contaminated soil
- Latex paint (water-based) or water-based stain
- Medical waste
Electronics
Electronics are accepted by E-Cycle Washington. You can also check with manufacturers for possible take-back programs, watch for retailer recycling events, or donate working electronics to charities. Cell phones, batteries, and chargers can be recycled for free at the Tacoma Recycling Center, the Tacoma Municipal Building, and the Tacoma Public Utilities Lobby.