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1. What are the pharmaceuticals drop off program guidelines?

Bring residentially-generated pharmaceuticals, including over-the-counter, non-controlled medications. See list below for acceptable and unacceptable items. No controlled substances will be accepted. For a list of controlled substances visit the Diversion Control Division of the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Agency website.

Pharmaceuticals must be in the original container with labels to identify contents. Personal information such as name, address or phone on the prescription label can be blackened out.

Acceptable Items:
Unused and expired prescription medications
Prescription cough syrup
Prescription eye and ear drops
Unused and expired over-the-counter medications
Unacceptable Items:
Controlled substances and non-prescription liquids.
Controlled substances can be crushed and mixed with an undesirable substance like coffee grounds or kitty litter, and then thrown away in the garbage.

For additional program information visit the SWANCC Pharmaceutical/Sharps Disposal website.

2. What are the sharp disposal program guidelines?

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.

For additional program information visit the SWANCC Pharmaceutical/Sharps Disposal website.

3. What light bulbs are accepted for the drop off program?

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 that are sealed in a plastic bag. 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. For additional program information go to the Fluorescent Bulb Recycling page of the SWANCC website. A limit of 12 lights will be accepted from a resident per visit.