Island homeowners looking to safely clear out old paints, pool chemicals, pesticides, and automotive fluids have a free, convenient opportunity just around the corner. Hosted jointly by the City of Sanibel and Lee County Solid Waste, a dedicated household chemical waste collection event will take place on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the parking lot of the Sanibel Public Library (770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel).
Operated as a contactless, drive-through drop-off, this service is provided at no charge to all island residents.
At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we know that protecting Sanibel’s pristine environment begins right at home. With our island’s interconnected canals, interior freshwater wetlands, and delicate coastal aquifer, properly disposing of hazardous household compounds prevents toxic runoff, preserves water quality, and safeguards our wildlife habitats.
Event Details & Drive-Through Logistics
The collection is made possible through an ongoing interlocal agreement between the City of Sanibel and Lee County, offering residents a responsible disposal solution for materials that cannot enter standard municipal waste streams.
COLLECTION EVENT QUICK FACTS
[ DATE & TIME ] ──► Wednesday, September 2, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
[ LOCATION ] ──► Sanibel Public Library Parking Lot (770 Dunlop Road)
[ COST ] ──► 100% Free for Sanibel residential households
[ FORMAT ] ──► Drive-through service (Staff unloads your trunk/truck bed)
What to Bring: Accepted Household Chemical Waste
Residents are encouraged to check garages, sheds, workshops, and under-sink cabinets for hazardous substances, including:
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Paints & Solvents: Leftover oil-based paints, stains, varnishes, thinners, and strippers.
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Lawn & Garden: Herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers.
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Automotive Liquids: Motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, steering fluid, and antifreeze.
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Pool & Home Care: Chlorine, shock, algaecides, muriatic acid, and concentrated household cleaners.
Items Not Considered Chemical Waste (Regular Curbside Garbage)
Certain household and maintenance items do not require hazardous processing and may be placed directly in your standard household trash collection:
| Category | Permitted in Regular Household Garbage |
| Paint Containers | Empty paint cans and completely dried latex paint cans. |
| Fluid Cans | Empty automotive fluid bottles and containers. |
| Yard Equipment | Small-engine equipment (pressure washers, lawnmowers, weed trimmers). |
| Small Electronics | Computer mice, keyboards, modems, and routers. |
| Household Items | Small kitchen/home appliances and tires. |
Commercial & Business Waste Disposal Guidelines
This collection event is reserved exclusively for residential properties. Commercial enterprises, contractors, and landscape businesses requiring hazardous chemical disposal should arrange a drop-off appointment via MXI Environmental Services by calling 276-477-0947 or emailing CESQG@MXIINC.com.
Alternatively, commercial entities may coordinate directly with Lee County’s permanent Household Chemical Waste facility off Metro Parkway in South Fort Myers (6441 Topaz Court) by calling 239-533-8000.
For more details on upcoming county recycling drives and hazardous waste guidelines, visit the official Lee County Solid Waste Chemical Portal.
