Sanibel and Captiva residents can safely dispose of unwanted chemicals
Island residents will be able to safely and responsibly dispose of household chemical waste—leftover paints, cleaners, herbicides, pesticides, automotive fluids, and pool chemicals—on December 6, 2023.
Hosted in partnership with Lee County Solid Waste, a household chemical waste collection event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road Sanibel. Drop off of items will be an easy drive-thru process available to all residents—at no charge.
What can be brought to the event:
Leftover paints, thinners, and paint removers
Household cleaners, such as oven cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, and drain cleaners
Yard and garden chemicals, such as herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers
Pool chemicals
Automotive fluids, such as antifreeze, motor oil, and brake fluid
Other household hazardous wastes, such as batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and propane tanks
What cannot be brought to the event:
Empty paint cans and dried paint
Empty automotive fluid containers
Small-engine equipment, such as pressure washers, lawnmowers, and weed eaters
Small electronic parts, such as routers, mice, and keyboards
Small appliances
Tires
How to prepare items for disposal:
Keep containers in their original packaging if possible.
If the original packaging is not available, label the containers clearly with the contents.
Do not mix chemicals together.
Place containers in a sturdy box or bag to prevent spills.
For more information:
Please visit the Lee County Solid Waste website or call 239-533-8000.
Additional tips for safely disposing of household chemicals:
If you have a small amount of hazardous waste, you can dispose of it at a hazardous waste collection event or a household hazardous waste recycling facility.
If you have a large amount of hazardous waste, you may need to contact a professional hazardous waste disposal company.
Never pour hazardous waste down the drain or into storm sewers.
Store hazardous waste in a safe place, away from children and pets.
By properly disposing of household chemical waste, we can help protect our environment and our health.