Hazardous Waste Disposal

The safest and easiest way for residents to dispose of household hazardous waste is to bring it to the permanent collection facility hosted by Fairfax County (open every day of the week). Hazardous waste disposal is free of charge for all City residents.
 

Permanent Drop-Off Facility


The City's fee to dispose of residential refuse at the Fairfax County Transfer Station entitles City residents to use the permanent household hazardous waste facility operated by Fairfax County. Participation is free. Proof of residency may be required. The facility is open every day of the week.  Visit Fairfax County's hazardous waste website or call 703-324-5068 (TTY 711) for current hours and accepted items.
  • 4618 West Ox Road Fairfax, VA 22030

2021 Collection Event


  • Saturday, October 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of an expanded Recycling Extravaganza.
  • Recycling Center (217 Gordon Road).
  • Click here for a list of what is accepted at the collection.
All household hazardous waste collected through these processes is recycled or disposed according to local, state, and federal regulations. 

What is Household Hazardous Waste?



Household hazardous waste refers to used or leftover contents of consumer products that contain materials with 1 of the 4 characteristics of a hazardous waste: toxic, ignitable, corrosive, or reactive.

Household hazardous wastes, such as cleaners, automotive fluids, herbicides, pesticides, oil-based paints, and thinners should not be disposed with regular trash. Learn more about common items that can be harmful to humans and the environment if thrown in the trash through the Northern Virginia Regional Commission's Know Toxics Program.
Household Hazardous Waste

Reason for Special Disposal


Improper disposal of even a small amount of hazardous waste can have major adverse impacts on our air, water, and soil and may result in death or serious bodily injury.


Procedures for Packing & Transporting Household Hazardous Waste


  • Keep products in their original containers. Do not mix products.
  • Make sure lids are tightly sealed. Label materials that are not in their original containers.
  • Place leaking containers in a larger, plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Secure products upright in a cardboard box. Do not transport products in plastic bags.
  • Transport products in the back of a pickup truck or in a car trunk. Ensure adequate ventilation if transported in car passenger compartment.
  • Keep flammables out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat, spark, flame or ignition. Do not smoke.
Common Disposal Misconceptions
Propane Tank
Paint Cans

Propane Tanks


The safest way to dispose of a propane tank is to return it to the place of purchase. Alternatively, tanks up to 20 pounds, such as those used on gas grills, may be recycled at the Fairfax County I-66 Transfer Station (4618 W. Ox Road) for a $3 fee. Tanks larger than 20 pounds must be returned to the place of purchase.
    
    
    
    
    


Used Paint


It is not accepted at the Recycling Center. The best way to dispose of it is at the Household Hazardous Waste events or at the Fairfax County I-66 Transfer Station (4618 W. Ox Road).
Used Electronics
Used Light Bulbs

Used Electronics


They are not accepted at the Recycling Center. The safest way to dispose of used electronics is at City contracted eAsset Solutions at 427 N Maple Avenue. City residents can drop off electronics including CRT monitors. Check website for drop-off times. They can also be dropped off for free at the Fairfax County I-66 Transfer Station (4618 W. Ox Road) or at the Recycling Extravaganza event. 
       
     
    

Used Light Bulbs


They are not accepted at the Recycling Center. The safest way to dispose of them is at the Household Hazardous Waste events or the Fairfax County I-66 Transfer Station (4618 W. Ox Road).