A to Z List
Follow these steps to search this list:
- Find your item in the alphabetical list below by typing the name in the search box.
- Click on the name of the item in the chart, and the page will jump to the correct listing.
- Still can’t find it? Send us your question or suggestion using our handy contact form. We do our best to provide complete information here, but there is always another item to add, and we appreciate your questions.
Many items on this list are accepted at CSWD Drop-Off Centers (DOCs). Please search this list first for all disposal options and prices for your item.
Disposal of “Blue-bin” recycling and some other items is free at all Drop-Off Centers.
Drop-Off Center fees for general household or construction trash are as follows:
- 18 gallons: $1.75 (construction & demolition, or “C&D” waste: $3.50)
- 33 gallons: $3.25 (C&D: $6.50)
- 45 gallons: $5.00 (C&D: $10.00)
- 1 cubic yard: $25 (C&D: $50 — larger loads will cost less at a transfer station)
- Burlington DOC only: Charge is by weight at $0.13 per pound, or by volume (as listed above).
Drop-Off Centers accept cash or Vermont checks only.
Drop-Off-Center Operators have the final say on fees and whether an item will be accepted. All fees listed on this website should be considered guidelines only.
TYPE THE NAME OF YOUR ITEM IN THIS BOX
AEROSOL CANS
Disposal options: Can go in blue-bin recycling only if completely empty and not hazardous (for example no motor oils or lubricants, pesticides or spray paints). Please remove the lid and dispose of it in the trash.
ALUMINUM AND METAL CANS
Disposal options: Cans are recyclable (when empty) at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers or in your curbside recycling. The can will be recycled with the label on it, but the paper label will not be recycled if it remains on the can. If the paper label is removed and included separately in your blue bin, it will also be recycled. Plastic labels are not recyclable.
AMMUNITION
Disposal options: Ammunition, such as bullets and shotgun shells, is not accepted at any CSWD facility. Unwanted or unused ammunition should be discharged safely or taken to a local gun shop. For disposal of large quantities of ammunition, please contact the Vermont State Police at (802) 872-4680.
Ammunition casing, as long as it is empty and made up of 80% or more of metal, is accepted at our Drop-Off Centers as scrap metal for no fee. Please make sure the casing is not mixed in with any live ammunition. We only accept the used ammunition casings. Shotgun shells are not accepted as scrap metal.
ANIMALS (dead)
Disposal options:
- Bury the animal on your property. For details, contact the State of Vermont Solid Waste Management Program at (802) 241-3888.
- Take the animal to a rendering company (only for large animals) or a veterinarian.
- Contact your local game warden (for road-killed animals).
- Double bag the animal and bring it to a Drop-Off Center or to a privately operated transfer station. Trash disposal fees apply.
NOTE: Farmers needing to dispose of large quantities of dead animals should contact the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources at (802) 241-3465 for guidance.
ANTIFREEZE
Disposal options: Chittenden County residents may bring antifreeze to the Environmental Depot. Businesses may call 865-4663 for fee info and to make an appointment for disposal. Cost: Free for residents.
APPLIANCES
Disposal options: Major appliances are banned from landfill disposal in Vermont. They are accepted year-round at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers.
Cost:
$5.00 — boiler, dishwasher, dryer, furnace, microwave, large photocopier, stove, trash compactor, washing machine, water heater
$5.00–water softener (without brine tank)
$3.00–brine tank for water softener
$8.00–water softener (complete with brine tank)
$10.00 — freezer*, refrigerator*, water cooler, ice maker
$15.00 — air conditioner, dehumidifier, commercial or medical refrigeration unit*
*For safety reasons, please remove doors with a latch-style handle (or disable the latch). The appliances are processed to remove hazardous materials such as fluorescent lighting, ballasts, capacitors, mercury-containing switches, and refrigerants. Once processed the units are then recycled as scrap metal.
NOTE: Every year, CSWD sponsors two Appliance Round Ups. On those days, appliances are accepted from Chittenden County households at no charge at all Drop-Off Centers.
ReSOURCE also offers an appliance pick-up service, or you can bring your appliance to their Appliance Drop-Off Center located at 38-42 Dorset Lane in Williston. The phone number is (802) 316-4210.
ASBESTOS
Disposal options: Asbestos is not accepted at any CSWD facility. If the asbestos is friable (crumbly, easily becomes airborne), it must be handled by an asbestos abatement contractor (look in the Yellow Pages). If it is not friable, it may be disposed of directly in a landfill. For detailed instructions, contact one of the privately operated landfills in Vermont:
Waste USA in Coventry – (802) 334-8300
IWS Landfill in Moretown – (802) 244-1100
For more information, contact the Vermont Department of Health Asbestos Hotline: (800) 439-8550.
ASEPTIC CONTAINERS (e.g. juice boxes)
Disposal options: Trash only, at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers or for curbside pickup. Household trash fees apply.
Aseptic containers, commonly containing single servings of juice and soy milk, are made up of layers of paper, aluminum foil, and polyethylene. These layers must be separated to recycle the containers. Unfortunately, there is currently no local facility that can achieve this separation. If you do wish to recycle the containers, you can send them to a special facility in Virginia. Drain, rinse, and flatten aseptic boxes, package them (mark the package with the word “cartons”) and mail to:
Tidewater Fibers
12206 Old Stage Road
Chester, VA 23836
ASHES
Disposal options: Small quanitites of household wood ashes (cold) are accepted at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers. No ashes of any kind are accepted at Green Mountain Compost.
Cost: Free.
Coal ash is not considered hazardous and can be disposed of with your regular household trash (as long as it is no longer hot). You can also dispose of it at one of our Drop-Off Centers. Regular household trash fees apply.
ASPHALT
Disposal options: Pike Industries in Williston (802-658-0453), A. Marcelino & Co. in So. Burlington (802-862-6383) and Ranger Asphalt & Concrete in Colchester (802-655-2005). Cost: Free.
Asphalt is also accepted as construction & demolition debris at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers (fees based on volume) and at the privately operated transfer stations (fees based on weight).
AUTOMOBILES
Disposal options:
- Good News Garage – accepts donated cars, vans, or trucks, repairs them and gives them to families in need of transportation. Free pick up and towing. Easy online donation or call toll-free 877-GIVE-AUTO (877-448-3288). Vehicle donations may receive a higher tax deduction if used in the program.
- American Diabetes Association (ADA) – (800) 232-6570. Donations accepted from individuals, companies, municipalities, whether vehicles run or not. (Free pick-up and towing). ADA also accepts donated boats, truck, vans — even RVs and airplanes!
- Used Parts Dealers – see listings in the Yellow Pages under Automobile Parts & Supplies – Used & Rebuilt and Automobile Wrecking
BATHROOM ITEMS
Bathroom fixtures and furniture of all kinds are accepted at CSWD Drop-Off Centers (except Hinesburg) as construction and demolition waste. The disposal fees are as follows:
| Item | Disposal (trash) fee |
|---|---|
| Medicine cabinet | $3.00 |
| Shower stall with base | $12.00 |
| Tub | $10 |
| Tub surround | $10 - $15.00 |
| Sink | $4 - $8.00 |
| Toilet tank with lid base | $4.00 $6.00 |
| Vanity without sink | $2.50/foot (width) |
For the same fees as above, you can take any clean, porcelain sink or toilet–stripped of all fixtures–to two local companies that will crush and recycle them as road base:
A. Marcelino & Co., Landfill Rd. (off Patchen Rd.), So. Burlington–(802) 862-6383
Ranger Asphalt & Concrete Processing LLC, 1607 Mallets Bay Ave., Colchester– (802) 655-2005
BATTERIES
Disposal options: Alkaline batteries (e.g. a typical non-rechargeable flashlight battery) no longer contain high levels of hazardous materials and can be disposed of in your household trash. A program for reclaiming materials of value in alkaline batteries is currently under development and we will announce its roll-out when it occurs sometime in 2013.
Cost: Household trash fees apply.
All other batteries (button cell, lead acid, lithium, rechargeable, nicad) should be brought to any Drop-Off Center, or the Environmental Depot (Chittenden County residents only) for safe, free disposal. Businesses or residents with more than five (5) non-alkaline batteries must bring them to the Environmental Depot. Other local, non-CSWD options:
Rechargeable batteries: Go to Call2Recycle for a list of numerous local stores that will accept these for free.
Button cell batteries: Many local pharmacies, audiologists, hearing aid dispensers, and nursing homes offer free recycling of these batteries. For more information, go to the Button Cell Recycling Project website or call the Mercury Hotline at 800-974-9559.
BIKES
Bikes are accepted for scrap metal recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers. They may also be placed in the ReUse Zone located at all Drop-Off Centers (except for Hinesburg) if they are in good and safe working condition. There is no fee to drop off bikes or other scrap metal. At the discretion of the Drop-Off Center operator, some bikes that are not rideable but are repairable or have reusable parts may also be placed in the Reuse Zone.
PLEASE NOTE: If your bike is in good condition, consider donating it to:
- Bike Recycle Vermont, a non-profit organization that refurbishes and distributes bikes to Vermonters who could not otherwise afford one. Donations are accepted, but not required. Pick-up service is available for those who cannot transport their bikes. Call (802) 264-9687.
BOATS
Old fiberglass boats can be disposed of at either one of the two transfer stations located in Williston. Please call before heading over since some size restrictions or limitations may apply.
Other options include:
- Contact a local marina to see if they need the boat for parts (look in the phone book under “marinas” for information)
- If your boat is made of metal or aluminum a local scrap metal recycler may be interested in taking it off your hands. Click here for a list of local scrap metal recyclers.
**Please note: Scrap metal components from a boat are accepted for free at all CSWD Drop-Off Center locations. Each customer is responsible for unloading the material into container themselves. Also, the scrap metal pieces cannot be larger than 20′ long and 8′ wide since those are the dimensions of the scrap metal recycling container.
BOILERS
Decommissioned boilers (gas, oil or wood-fired) can be disposed of at any CSWD Drop-Off Center for a $5 fee. These units may contain hazardous materials such as refrigerant, mercury devices, capacitors and ballasts. Once the boiler is inspected and any hazardous materials are removed, it will be recycled as scrap metal. Customers are responsible for unloading their boiler and placing it in the appliance area.
BOOKS
All books must be clean and dry. Discard wet, moldy or mildewy books with your household trash.
Paperback books are recyclable and can be placed directly in your blue bin and picked up with the rest of your curbside recycling, or brought to one of our Drop-Off Centers.
Loads of one cubic yard or less of hardcover books (including textbooks) are accepted for recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers at no charge. Large loads (more than one cubic yard) of hard cover books should be brought to Canusa Hershman Recycling Company on 33 Rewes Drive in St. Albans, VT. Call ahead at (802) 527-1707 to confirm space availability, current fees, and hours of operation.
Reuse Options:
Donating your books to a local library or charity may be an option depending on the quality and content of the books. Go to our reuse options page for a list of local reuse stores and charities. Also, all CSWD Drop-Off Centers except Hinesburg have a ReUse Zone, a building where books and other reusable items in good condition may be placed for others to take. Items for the ReUse Zone must first be approved by the Drop-Off Center operator. There is no charge for books, though drop-off fees may apply to other items.
There are also several textbook recyclers that will take your old textbooks and put them back into circulation. A list of some of these companies can be found below:
BUILDING MATERIALS
Used building materials include items such as dimensional lumber, plywood, doors, windows, sinks, toilets, cabinets, etc. If you have used building materials in good condition, they may be accepted for reuse at the private businesses listed below:
- Mason Brothers: 802-879-4221
- ReSource Building Material Center: 802-658-4143
For additional information on building material reuse, see the CSWD Reuse Options page.
Small quantities (less than 1 cubic yard) of used building materials are also are accepted as construction and demolition waste at CSWD Drop-Off Centers (except for Hinesburg). The fee is based on volume. Large loads of used building materials should be taken to one of the privately operated transfer stations. Fees are based on weight.
CARDBOARD
Cardboard is accepted as an All-in-One recyclable material. Please place directly in your blue bin and set it out with the rest of your curbside recycling, or bring it in to one of our Drop-Off Center locations.
CARPETING & RUGS
Wall-to-wall carpeting and area rugs and padding may be disposed of at any CSWD Drop-Off Center except Hinesburg:
- Dry carpet: $0.10/square foot
- Dry padding: $0.10/square foot
- Wet carpet: $0.20/square foot
- Wet padding: $0.20/square foot
When square footage is difficult to determine, the DOC operator may estimate overall volume and charge the Construction and Demolition waste rate of $50 per cubic yard. See the Drop-Off Center page for C&D fees for smaller volumes. Carpeting loads of more than a cubic yard should be taken to one of the privately operated transfer stations where fees are based on weight.
CHILD CAR SEATS
Due to changing safety standards and the fact that it is hard to determine if a car seat has been involved in a automobile accident, car seats CANNOT be donated for reuse. Instead, cut the harness straps in half; remove all covers and padding, and visibly damage the seat with a hammer so that the seat cannot be used again. Place the separate pieces in an opaque trash bag and dispose of as household trash.
CELL PHONES
Cell phones, pagers and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) are accepted at no charge for recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers.
Donate Directly! Cell phones, cell phone batteries and chargers are accepted at Women Helping Battered Women. Call (802) 658-3131 for address and hours. The cell phones can be any age, in any condition, and even have missing parts.
Cell phones are also accepted for recycling at these local stores:
- Best Buy — 26 Cypress, Williston. NOTE: Best Buy also accepts rechargeable batteries.
- Sprint PCS Store — 166 Sycamore, Williston, (802) 872-7732
- Unicel — 344 Dorset St., South Burlington or 119 Harvest Lane, Williston, (800) 462-3558
- Staples — 1375 Maple Tree Place, Williston and 861 Williston Rd, South Burlington, (802) 872-0260 NOTE: Staples also accepts pagers and rechargeable batteries.
- Verizon — 825 Williston Rd, South Burlington, (802) 865-3100
CD CASES
Plastic CD cases are recyclable and can be put in your blue bin and set out with the rest of your curbside recycling. You can also bring them to any of our Drop-Off Centers. For quantities larger than a cubic yard please take them directly to the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) located in Williston. Please make sure to separate any paper and cardboard inserts from the plastic case, and drop the inserts and cases in your recycling bin.
CHRISTMAS TREES
Please see our Christmas trees recycling page for several tree disposal options.
CLOTHING & OTHER TEXTILES
All CSWD Drop-Off Centers accept used textiles at no charge. It’s all picked up by Goodwill and resold in their local stores. Cost: FREE
Items Accepted: Clean, dry, used or new items in usable condition such as clothing, bedding, linens, draperies, curtains, paired shoes, hats, handbags, paired gloves or mittens and belts.
Preparation: Items must be clean and dry. Stained and/or torn items are not accepted. Store items in a clear plastic bag and place the bag in the containers marked “textile” at the Drop-Off Center. Customers with more than a cubic yard of clothing (roughly seven 33-gallon bags) should take it directly to one of the the Goodwill retail stores in Williston (802-879-0088) and South Burlington (802-658-5359), or to the Salvation Army Distribution Center in Essex Junction (802-879-8273).
Items Not Accepted: Pillows, rugs, carpeting, rags, fabric scraps, stuffed animals, or items that are dirty, musty, or mildewy.
Reuse Options: Got to our reuse options page for a list of local reuse stores.
COAL
Unburned lumps of coal are accepted as household trash at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers. Standard household trash fees apply.
For information on disposing of ashes go to the ashes section of this list.
Alternatively, you can try to donate the material to the Vermont WARMTH program. The WARMTH support program uses funds donated by concerned Vermonters to help low-income families pay their energy costs. For information on making donations contact the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, Inc. at 802-862-2771.
Or you can place a classified ad in your local newspaper or on any number of online community posting services such as:
- Freecycle – a listing of free items in the Burlington area
- Craigslist – an online community posting service
- GoodsMatch – an online resource where you can donate goods you no longer need
COMPUTER DISKS, CDs & VIDEO TAPES
Please go to our electronics page.
COMPUTERS
Please go to our electronics page.
CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION WASTE
See the construction and demolition recycling page.
COOKING OIL AND GREASE
Used cooking oil or grease should not be discarded as trash or poured down the drain. Up to five gallons of cooking oil or grease are accepted free at CSWD Drop-Off Centers.
These companies also collect and recycle commercial quantities of used cooking oils in Chittenden County. Contact them directly for details.
Baker Commodities: 802-658-0721
EnviroTek USA: 978-663-0904
White Mountain Biodiesel: 603-728-7351
See motor oil for information on automotive oil and filters.
DIRT, SOD, SAND & CLEAN FILL
Small amounts of dirt or sod (less than 1/2 cubic yard) are accepted at no charge at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers in our yard & garden debris pile.
Options for larger amounts of dirt, sod, sand or clean fill:
- Check newspaper or online classifieds listings
- Look for signs along the road advertising for clean fill
- Contact your local town office or that of surrounding towns for any information they may have of private, commercial, or municipal sites accepting clean fill
- See the “Clean Fill, Sod” section on our Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling & Disposal page for local businesses that accept this material for a fee
For information on soil contaminated with lead, see the lead-contaminated soil section.
DOORS
Used doors in good condition may be accepted for reuse at the private businesses listed below:
- Mason Brothers (Essex Junction): 802-879-4221
- ReSource Building Material Center (Burlington): 802-658-4143
Doors are also be accepted at any CSWD Drop-Off Center except Hinesburg for disposal as trash or to be put in the ReUse Zone at the Operator’s discretion. DOC trash disposal fees for doors are listed below:
| Door Type | DOC Disposal (trash) fee |
|---|---|
| hollow core | $5.00 |
| solid core | $7.00 |
| sliding glass | $7 - $10.00/section |
| any door with casing | add $4 - $6.00 |
| garage door < 6' | $7/section |
| garage door 6' - 10' | $10/section |
| garage door > 10' | $13/section |
For additional information on building material reuse, see the CSWD Reuse Options page.
DRYER LINT
Dryer lint is not compostable and must be thrown in the trash. We cannot accept dryer lint for composting due to the increased use of synthetic fibers in clothing.
DRYWALL (Gypsum)
Specifications:
Clean, new, gypsum drywall scrap only.
NO drywall with paint or wallpaper
NO cement board
NO plaster or tape
NO screws, nails, or corner bead
Bring it to:
CSWD’s Williston Drop-Off Center
1492 Redmond Road
802-872-8111
Accepted Mon-Fri 8-3:30; Sat 8-12:30
For Large Loads:
1. Weigh in at transfer station next door (1496 Redmond Rd.).
3. Check in with Drop-Off Center operator.
4. Weigh out and pay at transfer station.
Fees:
Small loads (up to 2 cu. yds.): $18/cu. yd.
Large loads: $70/ton
EAR-CLEANING SOLUTION
Ear cleaning solutions are not hazardous and can be poured down a drain or into a toilet.
ELECTRONICS
Please go to our electronics page.
EXERCISE EQUIPMENT
As long as it is at least 80% metal, exercise equipment can be disposed of as scrap metal at any CSWD Drop-Off Center for free. A $5.00 handling fee may be assessed for heavy/bulky items that customers cannot load into the scrap metal recycling container themselves.
Equipment in usable condition may be left in the ReUse Zone with the DOC Operator’s approval.
EXPLOSIVES & FIREWORKS
Explosives and fireworks (including marine or boat flares) are not accepted at any CSWD facility. For information on proper disposal, please contact your local police department. If your town is not serviced by a local police department, please contact the Vermont State Police at 802-878-7111. For marine flares: please contact the Coast Guard in Burlington at 802-862-0376.
See the flares section for information on highway flares.
FABRIC DYES
Older fabric dyes can contain cadmium and chromium, both of which are hazardous. Newer dyes tend be free of these ingredients. Regardless, any and all types of fabric dyes can be brought to the Environmental Depot.
Read the list of ingredients to see if it contains these ingredients. If you’re still unsure, just pool any leftover dyes into one container and bring it to the Environmental Depot.
FERTILIZER
Some fertilizers are considered hazardous waste (for example, those with weed killer included). All fertilizers should be brought to the Environmental Depot for proper disposal.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Some fire extinguishers can be refilled. Contact your retailer or the manufacturer to learn more about this option. Unwanted fire extinguishers are accepted when the Rover (our mobile haz-waste collection unit) comes to town (Chittenden County residents only) and at the Environmental Depot (Chittenden County residents only). No fee for residents.
Fully discharged fire extinguishers can be accepted at any of the Drop-Off Centers locations as scrap metal at no charge.
FLARES
Highway flares and road flares are accepted at the Environmental Depot. Marine flares are NOT accepted at the Environmental Depot because they are explosive. To properly dispose of marine flares please contact the Coast Guard in Burlington (862-0376). They will take them off your hands.
FLUORESCENT LAMPS
Fluorescent light bulbs and tubes (straight, circular and U-shaped), compact fluorescent light bulbs, UV radiation tubes, HID bulbs, and metal halide and sodium bulbs are all considered hazardous and need to be disposed of at our Drop-Off Centers or the Environmental Depot (Chittenden County residents only). Drop-Off Centers will accept unlimited quantities of screw-in style compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), but limits apply to other types. Please see our page on recycling fluorescent bulbs and tubes for details.
Cost: No charge for residents. See the Conditionally Exempt Generator (CEG) fee page for pricing beyond the first 100 bulbs brought in by businesses.
For more information, please see our page on recycling fluorescent bulbs and tubes.
FREEZER PACKS
Reusable freezer or ice packs are not hazardous — but they’re also not recyclable. They should be thrown out with your regular household trash.
Single-use instant cold packs containing ammonium nitrate can be discarded with household trash if the pack has been activated. Just squeeze and bend a single-use instant cold pack to activate it, then you can dispose of it in your regular trash. Unactivated single-use instant cold packs and older metal ice packs, which may contain hazardous ingredients, should be brought to the Environmental Depot (available to Chittenden County residents and businesses only).
FROZEN & REFRIGERATED FOOD BOXES
Frozen or refrigerated-food boxes are not recyclable in your blue bin and should be disposed of in the trash. Most are coated with a thin layer of plastic inside. Liquids would seep through unprotected paper cartons. The plastic coating also keeps the packaging from falling apart in a condensation-rich environment. Unfortunately, it also makes these items difficult to market and process for recycling, so they will be put in the trash even if you include them with your recycling.
FURNITURE (INDOOR)
You have several options for disposing of unwanted furniture.
- Got to our Reuse Options page for a list of local charities and used furniture stores for reuse. The Yellow Pages is another good source for outlets.
- Take it to one of the privately operated transfer stations for disposal as trash. Extra fees may apply.
- Take it to any CSWD Drop-Off Center except Hinesburg for disposal as trash or to be put in the ReUse Zone at the Operator’s discretion. DOC disposal fees for the most common indoor furniture items are listed below:
| Item | DOC Disposal (trash) fee |
|---|---|
| book shelf | $4 - $11.00 |
| Adirondack chair | $3 - $6.00 |
| chair/bar stool | $4.00 |
| lawn chair | $2 - $4.00 |
| upholstered chair or recliner | $7.00 |
| chaise lounge | $5 - $7.00 |
| couch (3 seats)* | $14.00 |
| couch (sectional)* | $7 - $14.00 per section |
| loveseat (2 seats)* | $12.00 |
| *with bed or reclining parts | add $3.00 to base fee |
| desk | $4 - $14.00 |
| dresser | $7 - $14.00 |
| entertainment center | $7 - $20.00 |
| picnic table | $7 - $14.00 |
| other table | $4 - $10.00 |
GASOLINE
Gasoline and gas oil mixes are accepted at the Environmental Depot (Chittenden County residents only). Containers cannot be any larger than 5 gallons in size. Customers with more than 25 gallons should call the Environmental Depot at 865-4663 to schedule an appointment.
Please note: Boat tank containers are accepted at the Environmental Depot but due to their size cannot be immediately emptied on site. The container will have to be left at the Depot to be picked up at a later date.
GLASS
Glass food and beverage containers only are accepted in our all-in-one recycling program.
Window pane glass, ceramics and drinking glasses (broken or intact) are not accepted for recycling and should be discarded as household trash. These types of glass are manufactured differently than glass containers and have different properties when melted and processed into new glass.
Windows complete with casings are accepted at our CSWD Full-Service Drop-Off Centers as construction and demolition debris. Fees will be charged based on window size. See our Drop-Off Center page for a list of fees.
GREETING CARDS & WRAPPING PAPER
Most greeting cards and wrapping paper (except for foil and mylar wrappings) are accepted for recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers and by all haulers offering curbside recycling in Chittenden County. Remove ribbons and bows for reuse, and recycle the cards and wrapping paper along with other mixed paper.
NOTE: Please do not recycle greetings cards and wrapping paper made from mylar or metallic foil or if they have a significant amount of glitter or felt on them. These items should be placed in the trash. If the material rips like paper, without any plastic layers, it’s recyclable.
HANGERS (metal, plastic or wood)
Reuse is the best option for any hanger. Some local organization that sell used clothing might welcome your hangers. See our reuse page for a list of such organizations.
- Hanger recycling options are limited:Wire hangers (including those coated with rubber) are recyclable in the scrap-metal bin, at no charge, at all Drop-Off Centers.
- Wooden hangers may be put in the “clean wood” bunker where available at a Drop-Off Center ONLY IF the wood has not been glued, stained or otherwise coated with a finish.
- All other hangers must be disposed of as trash.
Please do not put any hanger, of any material, in your recycling bin.
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL-CONTAMINATED SOIL
Businesses with soils suspected of being or known to be contaminated with hazardous substances such as oil or lead should contact the Hazardous Waste Division of the VT Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) at 802-828-1138.
Those with soils from a household should call the CSWD Environmental Depot at 802-863-0480.
In both cases, ANR or Depot staff will determine the best recommendation for disposal based on the nature of the suspected or actual contamination.
HOT TUBS
Hot tubs are best disposed of as trash at one of the privately owned transfer stations located in Williston (see linked page for fees, hours and locations). We suggest calling ahead to check for bulky item limitations such as load length limits.
Metal fixtures and motors can be recycled as scrap metal at any Drop-Off Center for no charge.
JOINT COMPOUND
Joint compound is not hazardous and may be disposed of as construction and demolition (C&D) waste. Regular C&D disposal fees apply. Empty plastic joint compound buckets wiped or rinsed free of all contents may be recycled with other mandatory recyclables. Metal handles must be removed and may be recycled as scrap metal at any Drop-Off Center.
JUNK MAIL
Even though most junk mail is completely recyclable, a better option is to stop it before it’s produced. The two key steps are:
- Remove your name from existing mailing lists.
- Prevent your name from getting on new lists.
The Direct Marketing Association, Directmail.com, Yellowpagesoptout.com, and Catalog Choice websites can facilitate that process.
KITCHEN CABINETS AND FIXTURES
A number of reuse options exist for construction and demolition waste such as cabinets, sinks and other kitchen fixtures. Before you bring these items to a CSWD drop off center, please check our reuse options page for locations that accept material in good condition for free. The following fees apply for landfill disposal of these items:
cabinets: $4-$10
countertop: $1.5o/linear foot
sink: $4-$10
LEAD FISHING SINKERS
It is illegal for anglers to use lead sinkers weighing a half-ounce or less to fish in Vermont. All Chittenden Solid Waste District Drop-Off Centers accept lead fishing gear for recycling as scrap metal, free of charge.
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LIGHT BULBS
Halogen, incandescent, and infrared light bulbs do not contain hazardous materials and can be disposed of with regular household trash.
Please see the entry under fluorescent bulbs for specific information on their disposal.
SOLAR LIGHTS
Solar lights contain rechargeable batteries which must be removed and recycled at any CSWD Drop-Off Center (DOC) or the Environmental Depot. Once the batteries have been removed, light fixtures that are at least 80% metal can be recycled as scrap metal at any DOC. If they are mostly plastic, they should be disposed of as household trash.
MAPLE TUBING
Bring this material to the Northwest Vermont Solid Waste Management District in Georgia, VT, where it will be baled and hauled away for recycling. NWSWMD accepts tubing year-round. Please call ahead to make arrangements. Contact Tom Reynolds at (802) 524-5986; info@nwswd.org.
Material Specifications:
- Polyethylene (PE) tubing only. NO PVC tubing. To determine whether your tubing is made from PE or PVC, clip off a sample and put it in a bowl of water. PE floats; PVC sinks.
- Plastic taps, tees and other fittings are OK to leave attached to tubing.
- Material must be as clean as possible in order to make this recycling program successful.
- If possible, cut mainline into 4-foot lengths. Coil or bundle tubing. Tie bundles together with tubing; do not use string or other material.
- NO drainage, sewer, or water service lines.
- NO string or metal of any kind (wires, wire ties, metal hose clamps).
MATTRESSES AND BED FRAMES
You have several options for disposing of unwanted mattresses.
- Got to our Reuse Options page for a list of local charities and used furniture stores for reuse. Some of these may not accept mattresses for reuse due to bedbug concerns, but others may now have bedbug treatments in place.
- Take it to one of the privately operated transfer stations for disposal as trash. Extra fees may apply.
- Take it to any CSWD Drop-Off Center except Hinesburg for disposal as trash or to be put in the ReUse Zone at the Operator’s discretion.
DOC disposal fees are as follows:
| Size/Type | Mattress or Boxspring | Head- or Footboard |
|---|---|---|
| Crib | $4.00 | $4 - $6.00 (frame) |
| Twin | $7.00 | $2 - $4.00 |
| Full or Queen | $12.00 | $4 - $7.00 |
| King | $14.00 | $7 - $14.00 |
| Water bed | $7 (liner) | $14 - $25 (frame) |
MEDICAL WASTE
There are two types of medical waste:
Unregulated Medical Waste, also known as Home Generated Medical Waste, includes syringes, sharps, and other medical waste such as bandages, dressings, or medical bags that are generated from home medical use, and not administered by a licensed healthcare professional.
- Soiled bandages, dressings or medical bags should be placed in a separate container, sealed, and clearly labeled before being placed in the regular household trash.
- For more information on how to dispose of needles and syringes from unregulated medical waste or home generated medical waste, go to the needles and syringes entry.
Regulated Medical Waste (RMW) is the portion of waste generated in the medical industry which requires special handling and treatment prior to disposal. For detailed information on treatment and disposal requirements please refer to the State of Vermont Handling and Treatment of Medical Waste Procedures.
Additionally there are three certified medical waste haulers who service Regulated Medical Waste in Vermont:
- Stericycle, Inc.: 401-769-5800
- B&D Associates: 603-224-1157
- S-J Transportation: 609-769-2741
For more information, go to the Vermont Regulated Medical Waste Locator.
What is Regulated Medical Waste?
The following types of solid waste are considered Regulated Medical Waste (RMW):
- Pathological Waste (Body parts and tissues)
- Human blood, blood products, and other body fluids–any liquid waste including blood, blood products, or items saturated or dripping with blood or other potentially infectious body fluids
- Cultures and shocks of infectious agents
- Sharps–objects that are capable of cutting or penetrating the skin and inducing subdermal inoculation of an infectious agent. This includes needles, Pasteur pipettes and scalpel blades. Discarded unused Sharps are also considered RMW. For more information on how to discard Sharps from home medical use click here.
- Animal waste–animal carcasses, body parts, bedding and other items from animals that are known or suspected by either the Department of Health or the Department of Agriculture of being contaminated with organisms that can produce disease in humans; and that disposal by burial or other ordinarily acceptable means would not sufficiently reduce the risk of transmission of a disease to humans or other animals
- Chemotherapy waste
- Infectious isolation waste–biological waste and discarded materials contaminated with blood, body fluids, excretion, exudates or secretions from humans who are isolated to protect others from dangerous incommunicable diseases
- Biotechnological by-product effluents–any discarded preparation made from genetically altered living organisms.
MEDICATIONS
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has been offering twice-yearly Prescription Drug Take-Back Days throughout the country. For details on locations and dates, see the DEA’s National Take-Back Initiative website page.
Burlington residents can bring medications (pill-form only) year-’round to the Burlington Police Department Monday – Friday, 9-10 a.m. and 4-5 p.m. for free, anonymous disposal.
CVS/pharmacy offers the Sharps Compliance Corp.’s Environmental Return System, which provides customers with the ability to safely dispose of their unused, expired or unwanted drugs using affordable medication disposal envelopes. Contact your local CVS pharmacy for details.
Unwanted medication can also be mixed with something that makes it unpalatable, like used coffee grounds or kitty litter, placed in a bag, and then placed in the trash. Do NOT pour or flush medications down the drain! Water treatment plants and septic tanks are not designed to remove these chemicals.
There are three other disposal exceptions:
- head lice shampoo – accepted at the Rover (Chittenden County residents only) and at the Environmental Depot. No fee for Chittenden County residents. No other prescription medications will be accepted.
- chemotherapy drugs – recommendation pending
- anti-neoplastic medicine – recommendation pending
NOTE: The vast majority of unwanted medication should not be flushed down the drain. Medications can pass through water treatment plants and enter the environment, harming wildlife. They also may disrupt your septic system or the water treatment facility.
MERCURY-CONTAINING DEVICES
Some common household items contain mercury, including thermometers, thermostats and fluorescent bulbs. Mercury-containing items should NOT be discarded as trash. These items are accepted at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers, at the Rover (Chittenden County residents only), and the Environmental Depot (Chittenden County residents and businesses only). No fee for Chittenden County residents.
Chittenden County residents and businesses may drop off up to 100 fluorescent bulbs per year, at no fee, to all CSWD Drop-Off Centers or the Environmental Depot.
Thermometers may also contain traces of mercury and should be brought to any CSWD Drop-Off Center or the Environmental Depot. Please double-bag all thermometers and thermostats.
Thermostats: Please see the separate Thermostats section.
Businesses with other mercury-containing devices should call the Environmental Depot at 802-865-4663 to schedule an appointment. Some fees may apply for certain items. Please see the Conditionally Exempt Generators page for a list of hazardous waste disposal fees for qualifying businesses.
NOTE: No broken mercury-containing devices will be accepted at the Drop-Off Centers. All broken items need to go to the Rover or the Environmental Depot.
METAL, SCRAP
Scrap metal is accepted for recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers. There is no charge to drop off scrap metal. A $5.00 handling fee may be assessed for heavy/bulky items (e.g. cast iron bathtub, riding lawn mower) that customers cannot load into the scrap metal recycling container themselves. Please note that there is a charge of $5-$15 for major appliances such as microwaves, stoves, water heaters, refrigerators and air conditioners. See the appliances entry for details.
Items must be at least 80% metal to qualify for scrap metal recycling. Some examples include:
- bicycles and exercise equipment
- desks
- electrical wiring
- filing cabinets
- shelving
- grills
- lawn furniture
- screens
- doors and windows (remove glass panes if possible)
- nails, nuts, bolts
- siding and roofing material
Other items accepted as scrap metal at any of our CSWD Drop-Off Center locations at no charge include:
Lawn Mowers, snow blowers, and car parts: Must be drained of ALL FLUIDS and batteries removed before coming to the DOC. Oil can be brought to any CSWD Drop-Off Center but gas/oil mixtures must go to the CSWD Environmental Depot
Mini beer kegs: Most mini beer kegs have a CO2 compressor so they are not acceptable in your blue bin as curbside recycling. However, they are accepted as scrap metal.
Helium tanks (Balloon Time type): Release all the remaining helium. Once you are confident the tank is empty or no longer under any pressure, remove the valve. We can then accept it as scrap metal.
Fluorescent Light Fixture: bulbs/tubes and ballast must be removed. Otherwise, a $5.00 handling fee will be assessed.
The following items cannot be placed in the scrap metal container:
For commercial quantities of scrap metal there are several scrap metal recyclers located in Chittenden County. Please contact them directly with any questions regarding large quantities of scrap metal (see below):
- All Metals Recycling: (802) 793-9133 (Williston, VT)
- Burnett Scrap Metals: (802) 482-6075 (Hinesburg, VT)
- Queen City Steel: (802) 864-0326 (Burlington, VT)
- Rathes Salvage: (802) 655-0651 (Colchester, VT)
MOTOR OIL, AUTOMOTIVE FLUID, & OIL FILTERS
Used motor oil, oil filters, and all vehicle crankcase and gearbox oils including brake fluid, differential fluid, gear oil, hydraulic fluid, motor oil, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, 2-cycle oil, and bar and chain oil are accepted at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers, at the Environmental Depot (Chittenden County residents only), and at the Rover (Chittenden County residents only). Certain restrictions apply and are explained in more detail below.
Motor Oil & Automotive Fluid
Businesses or residents can bring up to 15 gallons of these types of oils per day to any of our Drop-Off Center locations. Residents or businesses with more than 15 gallons of these types of oil, or with more than 2 gallons of oil in a single container, need to bring the material to the Environmental Depot. Please call ahead if bringing large quantities. The Environmental Depot number is (802) 863-0480.
Please note: The maximum size container that can be used to transport your oil is 5 gallons, with no more than 2 gallons of oil per container. We limit the size and quantity of oil we accept for safety and capacity reasons. The container should also be clear or translucent, and the oil should be free of contaminants such as water, gas, diesel, antifreeze, etc.
Cost: No fee for Chittenden County residents regardless of the quantity of oil. There is no fee to Chittenden County businesses unless the quantity of oil is greater than 15 gallons or if the oil is contaminated. See the Conditionally Exempt Generator (CEG) fee page for pricing in these cases.
Empty plastic motor oil bottles are NOT recyclable and should be disposed of in your regular trash.
Oil Filters
Residents may bring up to five oil filters per day to any CSWD Drop-Off Center at no charge. Larger quantities are accepted from residents, at no charge, at the Environmental Depot only.
Chittenden County businesses may bring up to five punctured, hot-drained filters per day to any CSWD Drop-Off Center at no charge. Businesses with more than five, or with any filters that have not been punctured and hot-drained, must take them to the Environmental Depot. Please call ahead to schedule an appointment (802-865-4663). There is no charge for punctured, hot drained filters. Intact filters are charged at $0.43/pound.
NCR, CARBONLESS & THERMAL PAPER
Carbonless (NCR) paper cannot be recycled and must be disposed of in your regular trash. What makes it unrecyclable is the same thing that makes the product so handy: When you put pressure on it, the paper imprints whatever it touches with dark ink. If the paper is added to a pulping machine along with other recycled papers, it leaches its dark ink into the entire lot, tainting it.
NEEDLES (SHARPS) & SYRINGES
At-home treatment of diabetes, allergies, and other medical symptoms generates waste syringes, lancets, and other sharp items, known as “sharps”. Sharps should not be thrown away loose in the trash since they could injure anyone handling the trash.
The solution: Carefully put each of your used sharps into an empty plastic bottle marked #2 HDPE on the bottom, that also has a screw-on lid. Laundry detergent and softener bottles are good examples.
Store
Store the bottle out of reach of children and pets.
Seal
When the bottle still has a couple of inches of space remaining, screw the cap on tightly and secure it with heavy tape.
Sticker
Label the container with the warning: “DO NOT RECYCLE!” Call the CSWD hotline at 802-872-8111 to request free stickers, or make your own.
Safely Dispose
Dispose of the sharps container in your household trash. DO NOT put this bottle in your recycling.
Syringes and other sharps generated by physician and veterinarian offices, clinics, and hospitals are considered Regulated Medical Waste (RMW). For more information on RMW disposal options, see the medical waste section of this listing.
HOME HEATING OIL & OIL TANKS
Home Heating Oil
The local companies listed below will remove unwanted heating oil and tanks. Prices vary and it could cost several hundred dollars for equipment, staff, transport, and disposal.
APT (Milton): (802) 893-8281
Enpro (Williston): (802) 923-1943
Rowly Fuels (Milton): (802) 893-7952
For information on any assistance the State of Vermont may have to offer, call (802) 241-3888.
For information on underground tanks, go to the State of Vermont’s Underground Tank Removal Program web page.
Oil Tanks
Oil tanks are accepted at any Drop-Off Centers as long as they are empty. Before you bring the tank to the Drop-Off Centers, you must remove any remaining liquid or sludge, which you can bring to the Environmental Depot for disposal. CSWD requires a one-foot-diameter hole to be cut into the tank to enable our Drop-Off Centers operators to easily inspect the inside of the tank to be sure that it is completely empty of any liquids or sludge.
If you are unable to cut a hole in your tank, you may bring it to Burnett Scrap Metals (878-5456; 8855 Rt. 116, Hinesburg), where they will inspect it to ensure that there is no liquid or sludge. They will accept completely empty tanks at no charge.
OILY DEBRIS
Rags, absorbent pads, and other materials saturated with oil (including cat litter and Speedi-Dry) are accepted ONLY at the Environmental Depot or the Rover (household generated hazardous waste only).
OXYGEN TANKS
Oxygen tanks, acetylene tanks, and carbon dioxide tanks should be returned to the company that provided them, e.g. Airgas. Please contact these companies directly for tank disposal options.
For oxygen tanks, if the company is no longer in business or unable to accept the tank, call the CSWD Environmental Depot at (802) 863-0480. You must make an appointment before bringing any of these tanks to the Depot.
PACKAGING PEANUTS & BUBBLE WRAP
Packaging peanuts, bubble wrap and other air-filled plastic cushioning products are not recyclable in your blue bin. See the Packaging Reuse page for options other than disposing of these in the trash.
PAINT
Paint and paint chips of all kinds are accepted at no charge at the Environmental Depot and the Rover. Both facilities are for Chittenden County residents only.
Latex Paint
Latex paint, even small amounts of crusty stuff that is still relatively liquid, can be reprocessed into our own Local Color paint. Just bring it to the Environmental Depot in the original can.
Small quantities of latex paint (one quart or less) may also be hardened and discarded as trash. Remove the lid and allow the paint to dry, or add kitty litter to speed up the process.
Lead Paint
Bring lead paint chips to the Rover or the Environmental Depot. Furniture or wood covered with lead paint can be disposed of as regular household trash or construction and demolition waste.
Do not discard oil-based paint cans in the trash! Oil-based paint never really dries unless the can is empty of all but the coating left behind. Consequently, if there is any left in the can, it is considered hazardous waste and must be brought to the Environmental Depot or the Rover.
Paint Cans
Metal paint cans (including those from oil-based paints) are accepted for recycling at the Environmental Depot ONLY. If the paint cans are filled with kitty litter or any substance except the paint product that came in the can, they will not be recycled.
Plastic paint cans are not recyclable. To determine if your paint can is plastic or not, flip it over. Cans with a recycling symbol and number on the bottom are made from plastic.
No paint cans are accepted for recycling at our Drop-Off Centers. Paint cans are not accepted as scrap metal at our Drop-Off Centers because of residual latex left in the can. When mixed with rain water leakage can occur and compromise all the other materials in the scrap metal bin.
PET WASTE
Pet waste, particularly from meat-eating animals, can contain pathogens, parasites, and diseases that can be passed to humans with improper handling. We do not recommend composting pet waste from meat eaters in backyard composting systems where you plan to use the compost.
CSWD does not accept pet waste at its large-scale composting facility in Williston. Whether at home or in a public area, the safest option is to toss it in the trash, sealed in a plastic bag.
Compostable pet waste bags will not degrade in a landfill, and offer no advantage over conventional plastic bags in this regard.
Other disposal options include:
- Backyard pet-waste composting systems such as a Doggie Dooley. If you google “pet waste composting” you will find dozens of sites offering products and advice. The main things to keep in mind with these are to station the system far away from your garden (particularly if you’re growing edible produce) and far away from open or flowing water to prevent contamination of that water source. Also, some systems require lots of attention to prevent contamination and odors. Compostable bags such as BioBags will break down in these systems and help reduce danger of disease transmission. CSWD does not recommend “degradable” plastic bags, which simply break down into smaller pieces of plastic.
- Flush small amounts down the toilet. Where kitty litter is used, make sure the brand has been approved for public water treatment plants or backyard septic systems, whichever applies to your location. Some all-natural kitty litters will break down in a pet-waste composting system such as the Doggie Dooley (see above).
PHONE BOOKS
Phone books are accepted for recycling year-round at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers and by all haulers offering curbside recycling in Chittenden County. Just be sure to discard any plastic binders or covers.
If you no longer want to receive the “Yellow Pages,” you can opt out of receiving them at the Yellow Pages website.
PHOTOGRAPH PAPER
Commercially processed photographs are not accepted for recycling. This applies to instant prints, which use multiple layers of plastic-based inks, as well as more traditional processing, which involves a chemical process.
Please dispose of this type of photograph paper with your regular household trash.
The photograph paper that is most commonly used for inkjet printing of photos can be recycled and placed in your blue bin. This paper is commercially available and made specially for using personal printers to render images.
PIZZA BOXES
Clean pizza boxes are accepted for recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers and by most haulers offering curbside recycling in Chittenden County. Boxes must be free of food and grease.
If the pizza box is greasy or food-contaminated, compost it instead!
NOTE: Some haulers offering curbside recycling collection do not accept pizza boxes. They assume that they are contaminated with grease or stuck-on food.
PLASTICS
CSWD accepts rigid plastic containers and packaging labeled with the numbers #1-7. This includes most containers and packaging such as bottles, jugs, yogurt containers, dairy tubs, and clear plastic hinged takeout containers. Styrofoam, plastic toys, and plastic bags are NOT accepted. Plastic recyclables are accepted at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers and by all haulers offering curbside recycling in Chittenden County. Just empty and rinse the container and throw any lids smaller than 2 inches across in the trash.
NOTE: Empty plastic motor oil and transmission fluid bottles are NOT accepted locally as recyclables and should be disposed of with your regular trash.
PLASTIC BAGS
Even though plastic bags are NOT accepted as part of CSWD’s recycling program, several local grocery stores WILL recycle your bags. The stores that participate in a plastic bag recycling program include:
- Price Chopper
- Shaws
- Hannafords
- Walmart
Price Chopper sends their bags and other plastic film to a company in Indiana that recycles them into new bags. Shaws and Hannafords “back-haul” plastic bags, shrink wrap from deliveries, and other clean & dry plastic film to a distribution center. The compressed bales of plastic are then purchased by Trex, a company that uses the bags to make their composite lumber products.
Here’s what you can bring to Hannafords or Shaws to be recycled (NOTE: All plastic bags and film must be clean and dry!):
- Polyethylene plastic bags with the #2 or #4 recycling symbol (But NOT bags that contained pellets used in stoves, or water softener salt/potassium bags*)
- Other retail single-use plastic “shopping bags” (no cardboard bottoms or handles made from string or other materials)
- Dry-cleaning bags (NOT Gadue’s)
- Over-wraps from newspapers and bulk purchases of toilet tissues and paper towels
- Bread and veggie bags (clean and dry)
- Plastic Burlington Free Press newspaper bags are made from #4, non-biodegradable plastic, so they’re okay, too!
*Trex does not accept salt and wood pellet bags in their recycling program because even if these bags are labeled #2 or #4, they sometimes include a barrier film over the polyethelene plastic that renders the bag unrecyclable. Without testing each bag Trex cannot know whether they will break down properly.
For information on why plastic bags are not recyclable in CSWD’s recycling program, please see our Plastic Bags page.
PLASTIC PLANT POTS
Plastic plant pots are recyclable in your blue bin. Minimum size: 2 inches on any two sides. Maximum size: 2 feet on any one side. Please remove any dirt and rinse the pots before placing them in your bin.
PRINTER & TONER CARTRIDGES
Empty toner cartridges are not recyclable in your blue bin or at any CSWD facility and should be returned to a vendor program (see below) or discarded as trash — regardless of any recycling symbols on the cartridge.
Some printer and toner cartridges can be refilled. To learn more about this option, contact:
Ribbon Recyclers: 185 Commerce St., Williston; (802) 660-8960
Vermont Toner Recharge: 400 Ave. D, Suite 30, Williston; (802) 864-7637
Vendor Recycling Options
- Ikon Toner Recycling provides free recycling of any brand of injet and toner cartridges. After registering on their website you can order a prepaid shipment box provided by IKON and Clover Environmental Solutions. Once the box is filled, you give it to your UPS resource (or other provider) to ship to the Ikon recycling center.
- Best Buy has an inkjet cartridge recycling kiosk located just inside the front door of its store locations.
- Staples will take any inkjet and toner cartridges, and will give you a $2 coupon in exchange.
Always check to see if the new printer cartridge you purchase comes with an envelope to return the old one. A number of companies are providing this option.
PROPANE TANKS
Propane and other compressed gas tanks (e.g. helium) of any size must NOT be put in your blue bin for recycling. Also, due to worker safety reasons they should NOT be discarded as trash. Please see below for recycling options.
Small tanks (20 lb — standard grill size — and smaller, including 1-lb. camp stove size)
You can bring up to five per day for FREE to any Drop-Off Centers, the Environmental Depot, or the Rover. Let the operator know what you have when you pull up to the booth and he/she will direct you to the tank collection area. Customers with more than 5 tanks should go to the Williston Drop-Off Center and will be charged $1 per tank over the 5-free limit.
Large tanks and cylinders (over 20 lb.)
Accepted only at the Williston Drop-Off Center for a fee of $5 per tank/cylinder.
PLEASE NOTE: With the exception of the small “Balloon Time” helium tanks, tanks and cylinders of OTHER COMPRESSED GASES are NOT ACCEPTED at CSWD facilities. Such tanks should be brought back to the distributor (name is usually on the label). Distributors can be found in the Yellow Pages under Gas-Industrial & Medical – Cylinder and Bulk. The small helium tanks can be recycled as scrap metal at any Drop-Off Center once all pressure has been released (i.e., tank emptied) and the valve has been removed.
RAILROAD TIES
Small quantities of railroad ties are accepted at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers. The current fee is $2.50/foot. Large loads of railroad ties should be taken to one of the privately operated transfer stations where fees are based on weight.
NOTE: For businesses to dispose of railroad ties at the All Cycle Transfer Station, a TCLP is required. Contact All Cycle for details at (802) 864-3615.
ROAD SALT, ROCK SALT, ICE MELT
Substances used to melt ice on sidewalks and driveways–chemical ice melt, rock salt, road salt, sodium chloride–are not hazardous and can be thrown away in your household trash. Standard disposal fees apply when the material is dropped off at any Drop-Off Center.
Sand Blasting Grit from Auto Body Repair
Auto paint may have lead or chromium in it. Sand blast grit with such paint will not be accepted for landfill disposal unless lab reports confirming it is not hazardous are provided. Chittenden County businesses may dispose of it at the Environmental Depot which currently charges 40 cents/lb or $140/55-gallon drum.
SAWDUST
Sawdust from wood that has not been glued, treated, stained or painted can be disposed of in the yard debris bunker of any CSWD Drop-Off Center or at Green Mountain Compost. If you have two cubic yards or more, you must first call Green Mountain Compost at 802-660-4949 to arrange the drop-off. Sawdust from wood that has been stained, painted, glued or treated must be disposed of as construction and demolition waste. Disposal fees apply.
SOFTENER SALT PELLETS
The salts (sodium or potassium chloride) used in water softening systems are not hazardous and can be thrown away in your household trash. Standard disposal fees apply when the material is dropped off at any Drop-Off Center.
Reuse options include:
- Put it on Craigslist or Freecycle to give away or sell.
- Contact your Town to see if they can use it in their salt pile.
- Since it is not hazardous, crush it and use it to salt your driveway/walkway in the winter.
Salt and potassium chloride bags must NOT be put into your recycling or put in with other bags returned to grocery or box stores. We have not found an option for recycling these bags, and they must be disposed of as trash.
SHREDDED PAPER (CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS)
Shredded paper is recyclable. Please put paper in clear plastic bags and tie shut before placing in your blue bin.
For large quantities, contact one of these local providers for pricing and servicing options:
- Securshred: South Burlington, (877) 863-3003
- ShredEx: South Burlington, (802) 863-0404
- Gauthier Trucking: Essex, (802) 879-4020
We require shredded paper in clear plastic bags so that it can be identified by workers at the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) where all Chittenden County recycling is processed. These workers pull the bags off the line before they encounter the whirling discs and other machinery that sorts the recyclables.
If the paper comes in loose, it will wrap around the gears, plug up sorting screens, and generally cause havoc. If it is in an opaque bag, workers won’t be able to see that it is valuable office paper, and as it speeds by on the conveyor they will be forced to assume it is trash since they will not have time to open the bag.
SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
Intact carbon monoxide detectors and household smoke detectors are accepted for disposal with regular trash at CSWD Drop-Off Centers.
Ionization smoke detectors do contain a small amount of a low-level radioactive isotope. Care should be used in handling these items, but the material is not considered hazardous to people or pets at the levels present in household smoke detectors.
Many manufacturers of these types of smoke detectors have voluntary take-back programs for safe disposal of these items. Be sure to verify current packaging and shipping requirements directly with the manufacturer.
Curie Environmental Services also will recycle ionization smoke detectors for a small fee. The program is called Curiepack. Other options for mail-in recycling exist as well.
Businesses should call the Vermont Environmental Assistance Division in Waterbury at (802) 241-3745.
SOLAR PANELS
Solar panels can be disposed of at any CSWD Drop-Off Center. Here’s what you need to do:
- Drain anti-freeze/glycol, if any, and bring to the CSWD Environmental Depot for recycling at no charge.
- If panel is 80% metal, by volume, recycle as scrap metal.
- If panel is comprised of less than 80% metal, by volume, dispose of as trash.
SPACE HEATERS
Space heaters generally fall into three categories for disposal:
- If it is a sealed unit that contains oil or another hazardous waste that you cannot drain and recycle separately, bring the heater to the CSWD Environmental Depot for recycling at no charge.
- If the heater is at least 80 percent metal and contains no hazardous fluids, it can be recycled for free as scrap metal at any CSWD Drop-Off Center.
- If the heater is mostly plastic and contains no hazardous material, it should be disposed of in your regular household trash.
SPORTING GOODS
Used sporting goods in good condition are accepted at some local stores for resale. See our Reuse Options page or look in the Yellow Pages under Sporting Goods.
STYROFOAM (expanded polystyrene)
Styrofoam™ –the brand name for expanded polystyrene (EPS)–of any kind is not accepted for recycling at any CSWD facility. Instead it should be discarded with your trash.
Styrofoam packaging peanuts are often accepted at no charge at services such as UPS and Fed Ex shippers for reuse.
See the Recycle Tech “Pack-It-Back” program for a mail-in EPS recycling option.
TELEVISIONS
Please see the electronics recycling page.
TENNIS BALLS
CSWD does not offer a tennis ball recycling program, but some senior centers and nursing homes accept them for use on walker feet, and animal adoption agencies and shelters may accept also accept them. Another option is Rebounces, a business that restores the bounce to old balls.
THERMOSTATS and THERMOMETERS
Old-style thermometers and thermostats can’t be thrown out with your regular trash because they contain mercury, a hazardous material that is banned from landfill disposal. Instead, you can bring these items to any CSWD Drop-Off Center or the CSWD Environmental Depot. Thermostats can be turned in for a $5 rebate coupon. Or, go to the Vermont Mercury Education and Reduction Campaign website for a list of participating retail and wholesale locations where you can get the rebate, as well as other information on mercury-containing devices.
Steps to follow for the rebate:
- Double-bag the entire thermostat (including metal ring or cover) and bring it to a participating location.
- In exchange for your old thermostat, you will be given a card that contains a sticker, a post card, and a receipt.
- Attach the sticker to the thermostat and place it in the designated receptacle at the drop-off location, fill out and send in the rebate card, and keep the receipt.
PLEASE NOTE: It will likely be several weeks before you receive the rebate. Please call the number on your receipt to check on the status of your rebate. Also, if the thermostat does not contain ALL parts (particularly the metal ring and/or cover), and if it does NOT contain mercury, you will not receive a rebate.
Anyone can participate at retail and wholesale locations, but CSWD Drop-Off Centers and the Environmental Depot are limited to Chittenden County residents and businesses only. There is no limit on the number of units each person or business can turn in at CSWD locations.
TIRES
Tires are accepted for recycling at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers (DOCs). The fees are based on rim size.
Tire Disposal Fees
| Size/Type | Williston DOC only | All other DOC's |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 16" | $2.25 | $2.75 |
| 16.5" to 19.5" | $3.75 | $5.25 |
| 20" to 24.5" | $14.00 | $14.00 |
| Over 24.5" | $56.00 | $56.00 |
| Large loads | $200.00 per ton | not available |
| Tires on rims | $1.00 extra | $1.00 extra |
| *Bicycle (20) (10) | $2.25 $1.25 | $2.75 $1.50 |
| *Motorcycle (2) (1) | $2.25 $1.25 | $2.75 $1.50 |
| *Wheelbarrow | $1.00 | $1.00 |
| *can be disposed of for free in scrap metal if on a rim. | ||
NOTE: Every year, CSWD sponsors two Tire Round Ups for Chittenden County residents. On those days, up to four tires are accepted at no charge at all DOCs. Up to eight tires are accepted at the Williston Drop-Off Center.
TOILETS & SINKS
The ReSource Building materials store will accept some sinks and toilets in good condition for reuse(no cracks or leaks). Please check their donation guidelines for acceptable items.
Toilets and sinks of all kinds are accepted at all CSWD Drop-Off Centers as construction and demolition waste. The disposal fees are as follows:
- toilets: $10 for entire fixture
- tank with lid: $4
- base: $6
- sinks: $4 to $8 depending on size
For the same fees as above, you can take any clean, porcelain sink or toilet–stripped of all fixtures–to two local companies that will crush and recycle them as road base:
A. Marcelino & Co., Landfill Rd. (off Patchen Rd.), So. Burlington–(802) 862-6383
Ranger Asphalt & Concrete Processing LLC, 1607 Mallets Bay Ave., Colchester– (802) 655-2005
TOYS
Toys are not accepted for recycling at any CSWD facility. They are accepted as trash and, if they are in good condition, they may be placed in a Drop-Off Center ReUse Zone at the discretion of the Operator.
TYVEK ENVELOPES & TYVEK SUITS
Tyvek Envelopes
CSWD does not offer a Tyvek envelope recycling program within the district. Check out the DuPont Tyvek page for recycling options.
Tyvek Suits
Garment Recovery Systems accepts Tyvek suits for recycling (as long as they have not been exposed to hazardous material or waste). They will even pay for shipping.
USED MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
The Assistive Technology Exchange for New England offers a free online exchange for Assistive Technology (AT) devices, software and durable medical equipment offered for sale or no charge. These are devices or equipment to accommodate vision, hearing, speech, mobility needs and much more.
VACUUM CLEANERS
Vacuum cleaners may be disposed of at CSWD Drop-Off Centers for a fee. These items are not eligible for our electronics or appliance recycling programs.
GoVacuum.com ,will accept many types of vacuums for repair and resale or recycling and they offer store credit towards a new machine. Visit their web site for details.
Prices for bringing vacuums to CSWD for landfill disposal are:
shop vac: $2-$5
plastic upright: $3
small canister: $2
VIDEO TAPES
VHS tapes or other video tapes may be brought in a grocery bag to any drop-off center for disposal. For fees associated with tapes, CDS or DVDS, go to the electronics page.
VINYL RECORDS
ReSource accepts record donations at their home goods store. They also have a mobile collection unit dubbed the “Vinyl Van” that will do residential pick ups for a fee. Contact them directly to learn more or to schedule a pick-up at (802) 658-4143, ext. 19.
Alternatively, two music stores in Burlington buy and sell used vinyl records and CDs:
Burlington Records, 170 Bank Street: (802) 881-0303
Pure Pop, 115 S. Winooski: (802) 658-2652
Finally, you can check with your local Drop-Off Center Operator to see if they can be placed in the ReUse Zone.
If the above suggestions fail, the E-How website has several suggestions for creatively selling or reusing your old vinyl.
WINDOWS
Used windows in good condition may be accepted for reuse at the private businesses listed below:
- Mason Brothers (Essex Junction): 802-879-4221
- ReSource Building Material Center (Burlington): 802-658-4143
Windows are also be accepted at any CSWD Drop-Off Center except Hinesburg for disposal as trash or to be put in the ReUse Zone at the Operator’s discretion. DOC trash disposal fees for windows are listed below:
| Window Type (complete, w/casing) | DOC Disposal (trash) fee |
|---|---|
| standard | $7.00 |
| picture | $13 - $25.00 |
| bay < 6' wide | $17.00 |
| bay 6' - 10' | $28.00 |
| bay > 10' | $44.00 |
For additional information on building material reuse, see the CSWD Reuse Options page.
WINE CORKS
Although CSWD does not offer a wine cork recycling program, a company in Missouri called Yemm and Hart does offer a cork recycling option.
WOOD (clean, untreated)
Clean lumber, including tree limbs, brush and stumps, pallets and any milled wood that has never been painted, stained or treated is accepted at all Drop-Off Centers, except Burlington and Hinesburg, at no charge. The McNeil Wood Waste Depot accepts unlimited quantities at no charge. Customers with loads larger than three cubic yards, or those with dumping mechanisms, must use the Williston Drop-Off Center or the McNeil Wood Waste Depot.
Specifications: The maximum length for brush, tree limbs, and stumps is 6 feet. The maximum diameter is 24″. Nails and screws up to 1/4 inches in diameter are ok, but NO spikes, hinges, strap steel or metal appendages are allowed. Stumps must be free of dirt and stones and have a root ball measuring less than 2 feet or be cut down to this size.
WOOD (painted, stained, pressure-treated)
Wood that has been painted, stained, pressure-treated or otherwise treated or coated must be disposed of as construction and demolition waste since it cannot be burned as fuel at the McNeil Generating Station.
We accept limited quantities of construction waste at several Drop-Off Centers locations. Disposal fees apply.
Please take loads exceeding one cubic yard to one of the two transfer stations located in Williston.
X-RAY FILMS
These films contain small amounts of silver, which is hazardous even in minute quantities. Residents or businesses with small amounts of x-ray films can bring them to the Environmental Depot. The fee for businesses will be the same as for pesticides.
YARD DEBRIS
Acceptable material: Leaves, grass clippings, weeds, garden debris, house plants, and other yard and garden debris less than 1/2-inch in diameter. This material is banned from landfill disposal. If you bring it in a non-compostable bag, you must empty the bag of its contents and either reuse the bag or dispose of it as trash.
Small amounts of dirt or sod (less than 1/2 cubic yard) are also accepted at CSWD Drop-Off Centers.
Where to bring it: Any CSWD Drop-Off Center (DOC), Green Mountain Compost, or the McNeil Wood and Yard Waste Depot. No fee.
Landscapers and large loads: Loads larger than 3 cubic yards (about a small pick-up truck load) and dumping mechanisms are accepted at Green Mountain Compost, the Williston DOC and the McNeil Depot (up to 6 yards) only.
Noxious weeds and diseased plants
Noxious or invasive weeds and plants such as poison ivy, wild parsnip and giant hogweed can be brought to any CSWD Drop-Off Center or Green Mountain Compost for composting.
Late-blight affected plants MUST be contained in a sealed bag.
COMPOSTING OPTION: Late blight plant material will be accepted for composting only at Green Mountain Compost in Williston. DO NOT bring plant material infected with late blight to Drop-Off Center or the McNeil Wood and Yard Waste Depot for composting. At Green Mountain Compost, please stop in at the office to let staff know you’re disposing of plants infected with late blight so it can be immediately covered to prevent the spores from spreading. If you use plastic bags, be sure to seal them back up after you have emptied them (so residual spores don’t escape) and dispose of the bags in the trash. Plants may be left in compostable paper bags at Green Mountain Compost.
The high temperatures achieved at Green Mountain Compost will degrade noxious compounds and kill late-blight spores in these plants. The plants themselves will be reduced to compost and their seeds will be destroyed. These plants should NOT be composted in backyard compost bins, which do not typically reach and sustain sufficiently high temperatures to accomplish this.
LANDFILL OPTION: Because late blight is so easily spread, the Chittenden Solid Waste District temporarily eases its restriction on yard debris in the landfill for this material only, and only during the growing season. This allows residents and businesses to throw late blight-infected plants, in a sealed bag, into the trash in curbside garbage cans or into the trash receptacle at any Drop-Off Center. Regular trash fees apply.