Household Hazardous Waste Collection

The average home stores nearly 100 pounds of hazardous materials, including cleaning supplies, oil-based paints*, lawn care products, automobile fluids and pesticides. Improper disposal of these products — pouring down a drain, tossing in unacceptable trash receptacles, emptying into storm sewers or dumping on the ground — poses a health risk to our community.

*Please note that latex paints are not accepted. Water based and latex paint is non-hazardous when solidified.  Open the paint can and add kitty litter or waste paint hardener (available at home improvement stores). Thoroughly mix the paint and leave the paint can open to dry, somewhere away from children and pets. When the paint has solidified, close the paint can and dispose with your household trash.

Photo of a family garage with a man and kids storing chemical cleaning products

Where to Recycle Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) in St. Charles County?

From May 1 through September 30, St. Charles County residents may bring household hazardous waste (HHW) materials to Recycle Works Central (60 Triad South Drive, 63304) or Recycle Works West (2110 East Pitman Avenue, 63385) for proper disposal. There is a $25 fee (payable by cash or check only) for loads up to 50 pounds, with an additional charge of $1 per pound over 50. If you have questions, please call 636-949-1800.

Recycle Works Central (60 Triad South Drive in St. Charles) accepts HHW material from May 1 through September 30. Collection hours run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, with no appointment necessary.

Recycle Works West (2110 East Pitman Avenue in Wentzville) accepts HHW material from May 1 through September 30. Collection hours run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, with no appointment necessary.

Bringing HHW to Recycle Works Facilities

To ensure safety, please follow these precautions when loading and transporting HHW for collection:

  1. When possible, leave the material in its original container. Any item not in original packaging should be labeled clearly with a description of the content.
  2. Secure the lid tightly. Do not mix waste with other materials. Recycle Works locations will not accept mixed waste in plastic bags or other containers.
  3. Place secured container inside a box lined with newspapers. Fill any gaps with additional newspaper to help prevent spilling or tipping during transport.
  4. Place the box in the trunk of your vehicle and transport it to the closest Recycle Works location.
  5. Upon arrival at the facility, follow posted instructions and remain inside your vehicle until assisted.

Tips for disposing personal medical waste and medications.