The Short Answer: No for True Hazardous Waste
Licensed junk removal companies are not permitted to transport hazardous waste. This is a legal restriction, not a preference -- hauling hazardous materials requires separate EPA licenses and equipment that standard junk haulers do not have. Attempting to sneak hazardous materials into a junk removal load creates liability for both the company and potentially the homeowner.
What Counts as Hazardous Waste
- Liquid paint (latex and oil-based)
- Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers with active chemicals
- Pool chemicals (chlorine tablets, algaecide, pH adjusters)
- Solvents: paint thinner, acetone, mineral spirits
- Automotive fluids: motor oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, brake fluid
- Propane and compressed gas tanks
- Asbestos-containing materials
- Fluorescent light bulbs and tubes (contain mercury)
- Lead-acid batteries (car batteries)
Where to Dispose of Hazardous Household Waste
- County HHW events: Most counties run free household hazardous waste collection events, often monthly or quarterly. Search your county name + "household hazardous waste" to find the schedule.
- Permanent drop-off facilities: Many municipalities have permanent HHW drop-off locations. Earth911.com has a search tool by material type and zip code.
- Retailer take-back programs: Auto parts stores accept motor oil; hardware stores with PaintCare programs accept liquid paint; battery retailers accept lead-acid batteries.
Gray-Area Items That Junk Removal Does Handle
Some items sound hazardous but are accepted: dried, hardened paint is solid waste and accepted by most haulers. Empty paint cans are generally fine. Fluorescent bulbs in small quantities may be accepted. When in doubt, ask the company directly before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can junk removal companies take paint?
Dried, hardened paint in cans is accepted as solid waste by most companies. Liquid paint -- any paint still in liquid form -- is hazardous waste and not accepted. To harden paint quickly, leave the can open or mix in cat litter.
Can junk removal take propane tanks?
No. Even empty tanks pose a safety risk and are refused. Return full tanks to retailers through exchange programs (Blue Rhino, AmeriGas) or bring them to a local propane supplier. Truly empty tanks can sometimes be recycled as metal scrap.
Where do I take household hazardous waste for free?
Your county household hazardous waste program is the best option. Most counties run collection events at no charge to residents. Search your county name plus "household hazardous waste drop-off" to find locations and schedules. Earth911.com also has a searchable directory.