Special Material Drop Off Programs

The Village of Palatine offers Special Material Drop-off Programs. In cooperation with the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC), these free drop-off programs for residentially-generated special materials including sharps, compact florescent light bulbs (CFL’s), and 4’ florescent light tubes.   Only residential waste is accepted.
 
Many of these materials have recoverability, recyclability, or require special disposal for environmental concerns.

Collection Location and Times:

Village of Palatine

200 E. Wood Street
Community Services Counter – First Floor                  

Monday - Friday: 8 AM to 4 PM

Sharps/Needles

Bring residentially-generated sharps/needles in a red biohazard container or a rigid plastic laundry detergent bottle with a lid or a coffee can. Containers must have a clear visible lid or be opened by resident upon request to view contents. All sharps/needles must be put into containers at home. No loose or bagged sharps/needles will be accepted. The Environmental Health Division will also provide a free 1-quart or 1-gallon sharps container to residents who administer home-injections, while supplies last. When the sharps/needles container is full, the resident should bring the container back for proper disposal.

Compact Florescent Light Bulbs (CFL’s) and Florescent Tubes

Bring residentially-generated light bulbs that contain mercury, such as compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs that come in many shapes and sizes.  Bring up to 4’ in length fluorescent light tubes and bulbs.  Do not bring any incandescent bulbs, as they contain no mercury and can be disposed of in the garbage.  Broken light bulbs will not be accepted.

Medication

The Village of Palatine no longer accepts unwanted prescription and over the counter medications. For alternative disposal options, please visit the Cook County Sheriff's website at cookcountysheriffil.gov and search Prescription Drug Takeback Program.  You will find various disposal resources, including nearby pharmacies (by address and zip code) that serve as drop-off locations. 

For additional information regarding the special materials drop off programs, contact the Environmental Health Division at (847) 359-9042.