|  Proper Disposal of Hazardous Waste Did you know that improperly disposing of household cleaners, solvents and other chemicals is not only illegal but contaminates our local waterways and beaches? Hazardous household chemicals placed in your gutters, storm drains, sinks or toilets eventually make their way to the ocean and pollute our local beaches, the leading cause of beach closures. Instead, these items should be carefully sealed and placed in the trash or taken to a corresponding disposal center.
At South Coast Water District, we highly encourage you to do your part to keep our beaches clean, safe, and open by disposing of household wastes properly. We have compiled the following information to assist you in locating an environmentally safe way to eliminate common hazardous household waste, as well as which items to keep from pouring down the drain.
Let's all do our part to keep our local beaches safe and clean of hazardous waste!
What is Hazardous Waste?
In Orange County, hazardous waste is defined by something that is flammable, reactive, corrosive or toxic.
Some common forms of hazardous waste are:
- Anti-freeze
- Cleaners with acid, lye or bleach
- Mercury from thermometers or gauges
- Motor Oil
- Paint and Paint Thinner
- Pesticides and Herbacides
- Pool or Spa maintenance chemicals
If you have more questions about hazardous waste, please visit the Hazardous Waste Inspection Program website or call them at (714) 433-6000.
How do I dispose of household hazardous waste?
For the disposal of paints, cleaners, pesticides, batteries, anti-freeze, and other automotive products:
San Juan Capistrano Collection Center
32250 La Plata Ave, San Juan Capistrano
(714) 834-6752
Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
If you have any questions about other substances or waste removal, please call the California Environmental Hotline at 1-800-CLEAN-UP (1-800-253-2687) or contact the OC Waste & Recycling at (714) 834-4000 or visit them at oclandfills.com.
Where can I dispose of motor oil, not generated from a business (e.g. from a home oil change)?
Used motor oil is accepted for recycling at South Coast Water District:
SCWD Wastewater Division
Motor Oil Collection Center
34152 Del Obispo, Dana Point
(949) 496-9343
Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM
What other wastes should I be aware of?
Some common household wastes can contribute to clogged sewer lines and beach pollution. Luckily, this can be avoided by disposing of these items in the trash instead of pouring or flushing them down the drain.
Common wastes that should not go down the drain are:
- Dirt, Soil and Sand
- Feminine Hygiene Waste
- Leftover Food, Oil or Grease from cooking (FOGs)
- Medications of any kind (Including pills, capsules, syrups, and vitamins)
- Pet Waste
- Trimmings and greenwaste from plants and gardens
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