What You’ll Learn in This Guide

• Understanding Hazardous Waste Classifications
• Common Household Hazardous Materials
• Construction-Related Hazardous Materials
• Proper Disposal Methods for Hazardous Waste
• Buncombe County Hazardous Waste Collection Programs
• Alternative Disposal Solutions for Prohibited Items
• Environmental Impact and Compliance
• Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Hazardous Waste Classifications

Hazardous waste isn’t just a term for extremely dangerous chemicals. In Asheville and Buncombe County, hazardous waste includes any material that poses a potential threat to human health or the environment when improperly managed. Local regulations align with EPA standards that classify hazardous waste based on four characteristics:

Ignitability

Materials that can easily catch fire or sustain combustion fall into this category. These include liquids with flash points below 140°F, non-liquid substances that can cause fire through friction or absorption of moisture, and compressed gases. Common examples include gasoline, certain cleaning solvents, and aerosol cans.

Corrosivity

These materials can eat through containers or damage human tissue on contact. Liquids with pH levels of 2 or below (highly acidic) or 12.5 and above (highly alkaline) are classified as corrosive. Drain cleaners, rust removers, and battery acid are typical examples found in Asheville homes.

Reactivity

Reactive wastes are unstable under normal conditions and can create toxic fumes, gases, or vapors when mixed with water. They may also be capable of detonation or explosive reaction. Examples include certain pool chemicals, ammunition, and some fertilizers.

Toxicity

Materials that can leach toxic chemicals into groundwater when disposed of improperly fall into this category. Many electronic devices, fluorescent light bulbs, and treated wood contain toxic components that require special handling.

Asheville and Buncombe County follow these classifications when determining what items cannot go into regular dumpsters. Understanding these categories helps you identify which household or construction materials need special disposal methods rather than being placed in your rented dumpster.

Common Household Hazardous Materials

Many everyday items in Asheville homes contain hazardous components that require special disposal. These items may seem harmless, but when improperly discarded, they can contaminate soil and water supplies or create safety hazards for waste management workers. Here’s a comprehensive list of household items that cannot go in regular dumpsters:

Cleaning Products

Many common cleaning products contain chemicals that qualify as hazardous waste. Oven cleaners, drain openers, wood and metal polishes, and toilet bowl cleaners often contain corrosive ingredients. When these products are no longer needed, they should be taken to designated collection sites rather than placed in dumpsters or poured down drains.

Paints and Solvents

Oil-based paints, stains, varnishes, wood preservatives, and paint thinners are considered hazardous waste in Asheville. Latex paint, however, can be solidified by mixing with cat litter or commercial paint hardener and then disposed of in regular trash. Empty, dry paint cans are generally acceptable in standard waste, but containers with residual liquid paint are not.

Automotive Products

Motor oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and car batteries contain harmful chemicals that can severely impact the environment if not properly handled. Asheville residents can take advantage of local auto parts stores that often accept used motor oil and batteries for recycling. The Buncombe County Landfill also has a dedicated area for automotive fluids.

Batteries

Both single-use and rechargeable batteries contain metals and chemicals that can be harmful. While alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) can now typically go in regular trash in Asheville, rechargeable batteries, button cell batteries, and car batteries should always be recycled through proper channels.

Electronics

Computers, televisions, smartphones, and other electronic devices contain lead, mercury, and other toxic materials. Asheville and Buncombe County have specific electronic waste recycling programs to ensure these items are processed properly. Never place electronics in dumpsters or regular trash.

Light Bulbs

Fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) contain mercury and should never go in regular waste streams. Several hardware stores in the Asheville area offer recycling programs for these items, or they can be taken to hazardous waste collection events.

Pesticides and Fertilizers

Garden and lawn products often contain chemicals harmful to the environment when improperly disposed of. Unused or expired pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers should be taken to hazardous waste collection events rather than placed in dumpsters.

When you’re cleaning out your home in Asheville, set aside these items for proper disposal instead of placing them in your rented dumpster. This simple step helps protect our local waterways and natural resources.

Construction-Related Hazardous Materials

Construction and renovation projects in Asheville often generate waste materials that cannot go into standard roll-off dumpsters due to their hazardous nature. If you’re working on a home improvement project or managing a construction site, being aware of these prohibited materials will help you avoid disposal issues and potential fines.

Asbestos-Containing Materials

Homes built before the 1980s in Asheville may contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, and other building materials. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose serious health risks. If you suspect materials contain asbestos, do not place them in a dumpster. Instead, contact a licensed asbestos abatement professional who can safely remove and dispose of these materials according to strict Buncombe County regulations.

Lead-Based Paint and Materials

Many older homes in Asheville’s historic neighborhoods have lead-based paint, which was commonly used before 1978. When renovating, chips and dust from this paint require special handling. The Western North Carolina Regional Air Quality Agency provides guidance on proper containment and disposal. Small amounts of lead-based paint debris must be double-bagged and may be accepted at hazardous waste collection events.

Treated Lumber

Pressure-treated wood contains chemicals that prevent rot and insect damage but make it hazardous waste. In Asheville, lumber treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA) or other preservatives cannot go in standard dumpsters. This includes many older deck boards, fence posts, and landscape timbers. Check with the Buncombe County Landfill for their specific acceptance policies for these materials.

Construction Adhesives, Sealants, and Caulks

Many construction chemicals contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other hazardous components. Unused portions of these products should be taken to hazardous waste collection events. Empty containers with dried residue can typically go in regular waste, but containers with liquid product cannot be placed in dumpsters.

Solvents and Thinners

Paint thinners, strippers, and other solvents used in construction are flammable and toxic. These should never be poured on the ground, down drains, or placed in dumpsters. The Asheville area has several collection options for these materials through periodic hazardous waste events.

Contaminated Soils

Soil that has been contaminated with oil, gasoline, or other chemicals cannot go in standard dumpsters. Depending on the contaminant and concentration, special testing and disposal methods may be required. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality can provide guidance on proper characterization and disposal of contaminated soils in the Asheville area.

Unused Construction Chemicals

Leftover concrete additives, waterproofing compounds, driveway sealers, and similar chemicals should not be disposed of in dumpsters. Use up these products according to label instructions when possible, or take them to hazardous waste collection events.

For contractors working in Asheville, proper planning for hazardous material disposal is essential to maintain compliance with local regulations and avoid project delays. When renting a dumpster for construction projects, be sure to ask about prohibited materials and plan alternative disposal methods for these items.

Proper Disposal Methods for Hazardous Waste

Knowing how to safely handle, store, and transport hazardous materials is crucial for Asheville residents. Following these best practices will help protect you, waste management workers, and our environment while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Safe Handling and Storage

When dealing with hazardous materials in your home or on your job site, proper handling is the first step toward safe disposal. Keep products in their original containers whenever possible, as these feature important safety information and instructions. Never mix different products, as this can cause dangerous chemical reactions. Store hazardous materials in cool, dry places away from children and pets, and keep them separated by type (acids separate from bases, flammables away from oxidizers).

For temporary storage before disposal, make sure containers are tightly sealed to prevent leaks. If the original container is damaged, carefully transfer the material to a similar container and clearly label it with the product name and hazard type. In Asheville’s climate, avoid storing hazardous materials in uninsulated garages or sheds where they might freeze or overheat.

Transportation Safety

When transporting hazardous waste to collection facilities in the Asheville area, take precautions to prevent spills or accidents. Place containers upright in cardboard boxes lined with plastic bags to contain potential leaks. Never transport incompatible materials in the same box. Secure the load in your vehicle so containers cannot tip or fall during transportation, and drive carefully to avoid sudden stops or sharp turns.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events

Buncombe County hosts periodic household hazardous waste collection events throughout the year. These events typically rotate between locations in Asheville and surrounding communities. During these events, residents can bring hazardous materials for proper disposal at no charge. Check the Buncombe County Solid Waste Department website for upcoming dates and locations.

When attending these events, follow all instructions from staff regarding where to place different types of materials. Be prepared to remain in your vehicle while workers unload the hazardous waste. Have your proof of residency ready, as these services are typically limited to county residents.

Buncombe County Landfill Household Hazardous Waste Program

The Buncombe County Landfill accepts certain types of household hazardous waste during regular operating hours. Items generally accepted include used motor oil, antifreeze, car batteries, and electronics. Before making the trip, call ahead to confirm which materials are currently being accepted, as policies may change.

Commercial Hazardous Waste Disposal

For businesses and contractors in Asheville, different rules apply for hazardous waste disposal. Commercial entities cannot use the household hazardous waste collection events and must work with licensed hazardous waste transporters and disposal facilities. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality can provide information on permitted companies that serve the Asheville area.

Reducing Hazardous Waste

The most effective way to address hazardous waste is to reduce the amount you generate. When working on projects in Asheville, consider these strategies:

Buy only the amount of product you need for a specific project. Look for less-toxic alternatives when available. Use up products completely according to label directions. Share leftover products with neighbors or through community exchange programs. For construction projects, accurate material estimation can minimize leftover hazardous products.

By following these proper disposal methods, Asheville residents can ensure hazardous materials don’t end up in regular dumpsters or landfills where they could cause harm.

Buncombe County Hazardous Waste Collection Programs

Buncombe County offers several programs to help residents properly dispose of hazardous waste materials. Understanding these resources can make managing hazardous waste much simpler for Asheville residents and ensure these materials stay out of regular waste streams and dumpsters.

Periodic Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events

The most comprehensive option for Asheville residents is the periodic Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events. Typically held several times throughout the year, these events provide a one-stop opportunity to dispose of a wide range of hazardous materials. The county usually rotates locations to make these events accessible to residents across different parts of Asheville and surrounding communities.

Materials accepted at these events generally include paints, solvents, pesticides, household chemicals, fluorescent bulbs, batteries, and more. These events are free for county residents, though proof of residency is typically required. The events operate on specific dates and times, usually on weekends to accommodate most residents’ schedules.

To stay informed about upcoming events, Asheville residents can sign up for notifications through the Buncombe County Solid Waste Department website or follow their social media channels. Planning ahead is important, as these events can be busy and sometimes have wait times.

Year-Round Hazardous Waste Acceptance at the Landfill

While not all hazardous materials are accepted year-round, the Buncombe County Landfill does take certain items during regular operating hours. These typically include:

Electronics: Computers, televisions, printers, and other electronic devices are accepted at the landfill’s electronics recycling area. There may be fees for certain items like televisions and computer monitors.

Automotive materials: Used motor oil, oil filters, antifreeze, and car batteries can be dropped off at designated areas of the landfill.

Cooking oil: Used cooking oil is accepted for recycling.

White goods: Appliances like refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers that may contain refrigerants are accepted, though fees may apply.

The landfill is located at 85 Panther Branch Road in Alexander, approximately 15 miles north of downtown Asheville. Before making the trip, call ahead to confirm current acceptance policies and any applicable fees.

Special Programs for Specific Materials

Buncombe County has implemented specialized programs for certain types of hazardous waste:

Medication disposal: Unwanted medications can be disposed of through drop boxes located at law enforcement facilities throughout Asheville and Buncombe County. These provide a safe alternative to flushing medications or placing them in trash.

Sharps and medical waste: The county provides guidance for safely packaging and disposing of needles and other medical sharps generated at home. Properly packaged sharps can be disposed of in regular trash in Buncombe County.

Mercury-containing items: Special care is taken with items containing mercury, such as thermostats and thermometers. These are accepted at hazardous waste collection events and sometimes through special collection initiatives.

Community Partnerships

Buncombe County works with local businesses and organizations to expand hazardous waste disposal options:

Paint recycling: Some hardware and paint stores in the Asheville area participate in paint take-back programs, accepting leftover paint for proper disposal or recycling.

Battery collection: Several electronics retailers and home improvement stores offer collection bins for rechargeable batteries and cell phones.

Automotive shops: Many auto service centers in Asheville will accept used motor oil, antifreeze, and car batteries from customers and sometimes from the general public.

By utilizing these county programs, Asheville residents can ensure their hazardous waste is handled properly, protecting both public health and our beautiful mountain environment.

Alternative Disposal Solutions for Prohibited Items

When you discover items that cannot go in your rented dumpster in Asheville, knowing the alternative disposal options can save you time and hassle. Several specialized services and facilities in the area accept hazardous materials that standard waste management cannot handle.

Retail Take-Back Programs

Many retailers in Asheville offer take-back programs for specific products they sell. These programs provide convenient disposal options for common hazardous items:

Home improvement stores: Stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot in the Asheville area often accept rechargeable batteries, compact fluorescent light bulbs, and sometimes paint. The Home Depot on Tunnel Road has a dedicated collection bin for rechargeable batteries and CFLs near their customer service area.

Electronics retailers: Best Buy and similar stores typically accept many types of electronic waste, including computers, televisions, and small appliances. Some items may incur a small recycling fee, while others are accepted at no charge.

Automotive parts stores: Businesses like Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, and O’Reilly Auto Parts in Asheville generally accept used motor oil, oil filters, and car batteries from do-it-yourself mechanics.

Pharmacies: Many pharmacies in the Asheville area participate in medication take-back programs or provide mail-back envelopes for prescription medications.

Specialized Recycling Centers

Beyond retail options, Asheville has specialized recycling facilities that accept materials standard recycling programs don’t:

Asheville Waste Paper: This facility accepts certain types of electronic waste and scrap metal that may contain hazardous components.

Battery recycling centers: Call2Recycle has multiple drop-off locations throughout Asheville for rechargeable batteries and cell phones.

Metal recyclers: Businesses like Biltmore Iron and Metal Co. accept appliances and scrap metal that may contain hazardous components.

Donation and Reuse Options

For items that are still usable but cannot go in dumpsters, consider donation or reuse:

Habitat for Humanity ReStore: The Asheville ReStore accepts leftover construction materials, including unopened paint and some types of building supplies that might otherwise require special disposal.

Asheville Tool Library: For unused or partially used products like cleaners, paints, and garden chemicals, the tool library sometimes accepts donations for community use.

Freecycle and Buy Nothing groups: Local online communities often have members willing to take and use products you no longer need, keeping them out of the waste stream entirely.

Commercial Hazardous Waste Services

For larger quantities or commercial hazardous waste in Asheville, several private companies offer collection and disposal services:

Clean Harbors Environmental Services: Provides comprehensive hazardous waste management for businesses and larger generators.

Veolia Environmental Services: Offers collection and processing of various hazardous wastes for commercial clients in the Asheville region.

Medical waste specialists: Companies like Stericycle provide disposal services for medical waste, which cannot go in standard dumpsters.

Mail-Back Programs

For certain hazardous items, mail-back programs offer convenient disposal options:

Mercury-containing items: Several manufacturers offer mail-back programs for thermostats and other mercury-containing devices.

Batteries: Call2Recycle and other organizations provide mail-back options for batteries and cell phones when drop-off locations aren’t convenient.

Light bulbs: Mail-back kits are available for fluorescent tubes and other mercury-containing bulbs that cannot go in standard waste.

By utilizing these alternative disposal options, Asheville residents can responsibly manage items that cannot go in dumpsters, protecting both the environment and waste management workers while staying compliant with local regulations.

Environmental Impact and Compliance

The beautiful mountains, pristine waterways, and diverse ecosystems surrounding Asheville make proper hazardous waste disposal not just a legal obligation but an environmental imperative. Understanding the consequences of improper disposal and the regulations that govern it helps residents make informed choices about waste management.

Environmental Consequences of Improper Disposal

When hazardous materials end up in landfills or are improperly dumped in Asheville, several environmental impacts can occur:

Water contamination: The French Broad River watershed and local groundwater are particularly vulnerable to contamination from improperly disposed hazardous waste. When toxic materials leach from landfills or illegal dump sites, they can enter water systems, affecting both wildlife and drinking water sources. In Western North Carolina’s mountainous terrain, contaminants can travel quickly through the watershed.

Soil contamination: Hazardous materials can persist in soil for decades, creating long-term environmental damage and health risks. Our region’s tourism and agricultural industries depend on clean, healthy soil.

Air quality issues: When certain hazardous wastes break down or are burned, they release toxic gases that impact air quality in the Asheville Basin, which already faces air quality challenges due to its geography.

Wildlife impact: The diverse ecosystems in the Blue Ridge Mountains are home to many species that can be harmed by exposure to hazardous materials. Toxic substances can bioaccumulate in the food chain, affecting even animals not directly exposed.

Local Regulations and Compliance

Asheville and Buncombe County enforce several regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal:

Prohibited materials ordinances: Local waste management ordinances specifically prohibit placing hazardous materials in standard waste streams, including dumpsters. These rules align with state and federal regulations but may have additional local requirements.

Illegal dumping penalties: Improper disposal of hazardous waste can result in significant fines and even criminal charges. In Buncombe County, illegal dumping fines start at $100 and can reach $5,000 for hazardous materials, with potential additional penalties under state and federal law.

Business compliance requirements: Commercial entities in Asheville face stricter regulations regarding hazardous waste. Depending on the quantity generated, businesses may need to register with the state and follow specific handling, storage, and reporting requirements.

Construction and demolition permits: Projects in Asheville often require waste management plans that address the proper disposal of potentially hazardous construction materials as part of the permitting process.

Benefits of Proper Disposal

When Asheville residents dispose of hazardous waste properly, multiple benefits result:

Resource conservation: Many hazardous materials can be recycled or reprocessed, conserving valuable resources. For example, used motor oil can be re-refined into new oil products, and metals from electronics can be recovered.

Pollution prevention: Proper disposal prevents contamination of our natural resources, protecting the environmental qualities that make Western North Carolina special.

Public health protection: By keeping hazardous materials out of standard waste streams, we protect waste management workers from exposure to harmful substances and prevent the creation of toxic environments that could affect public health.

Economic benefits: Maintaining a clean environment supports Asheville’s tourism economy and prevents costly environmental cleanup projects that would ultimately be funded by taxpayers.

Staying Informed

Regulations regarding hazardous waste can change as new materials are developed and new environmental concerns emerge. Staying informed about current disposal requirements helps Asheville residents remain in compliance.

The Buncombe County Solid Waste Department website provides updates on regulations and disposal options. The Western North Carolina Regional Air Quality Agency offers guidance on materials that might impact air quality. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality provides state-level information on hazardous waste regulations.

By understanding both the environmental impact of hazardous waste and the regulations governing its disposal, Asheville residents can make responsible choices that protect our mountain environment for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I accidentally put hazardous waste in my rented dumpster in Asheville?

If you realize you’ve accidentally placed hazardous materials in your rented dumpster, contact your dumpster rental company immediately. At All-In Dumpster Rentals, we can advise you on the best course of action, which typically involves safely removing the item before the dumpster is transported. If hazardous waste is discovered during inspection or dumping, you may be responsible for additional fees, fines, or cleanup costs, so it’s always best to be proactive and notify the company right away.

Can I put empty containers that once held hazardous materials in my dumpster?

It depends on the material and container. In Asheville, containers that held non-acute hazardous waste are generally considered non-hazardous if they are empty, which means all material has been removed by normal means (pouring, pumping) and no more than one inch of residue remains. However, containers that held acutely hazardous materials require triple rinsing and special handling. As a general rule, empty paint cans with dried residue are acceptable, while containers that held pesticides or strong chemicals should be taken to hazardous waste collection events even when empty.

How do I dispose of latex paint in Asheville?

Latex paint is not considered hazardous waste if properly prepared for disposal. To dispose of latex paint in Asheville, first allow it to dry completely by removing the lid in a well-ventilated area, or speed up the process by mixing in cat litter, sand, or commercial paint hardener. Once the paint is completely solid, you can place the can with the lid off in your regular trash or in a dumpster rental. For large quantities of liquid latex paint, consider donating usable paint to organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStore or bringing it to a household hazardous waste collection event.

Where can I dispose of electronics in the Asheville area?

Electronics cannot go in standard dumpsters in Asheville due to their potentially hazardous components. You have several disposal options: the Buncombe County Landfill accepts electronics for recycling (fees may apply for some items); retailers like Best Buy offer electronics recycling services; periodic electronic waste collection events are held throughout the year in various locations; and some charitable organizations accept working electronics for reuse. Check the Buncombe County Solid Waste website for current information on electronics recycling options.

Are there any hazardous materials that require special transportation permits in Buncombe County?

Yes, certain hazardous materials require special permits and handling for transportation in Buncombe County, particularly for commercial quantities. Materials classified as hazardous under Department of Transportation regulations generally require proper packaging, labeling, and in some cases, special vehicles and driver training. For household quantities being transported to collection events, special permits are typically not required, but materials should be securely packed to prevent spills. Always follow guidance provided by collection event organizers regarding transportation safety.

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Protecting Asheville’s Environment Through Proper Waste Disposal

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the complex world of hazardous waste disposal in Asheville and Buncombe County. From understanding what materials are classified as hazardous to learning about local disposal options, you now have the knowledge to make responsible choices about waste management that protect our mountain environment.

Proper hazardous waste disposal is more than just following regulations—it’s about preserving the natural beauty and resources that make Western North Carolina special. By keeping dangerous materials out of standard waste streams and dumpsters, you’re helping to protect our watersheds, soil, air quality, and wildlife for future generations.

Remember that as a local, family-owned business serving Asheville and surrounding communities, All-In Dumpster Rentals is committed to environmentally responsible waste management. We’re happy to answer your questions about what can and cannot go in our dumpsters and can provide guidance on alternative disposal options for hazardous materials.

Need help with your waste disposal project? Whether you’re renovating a home, cleaning out a property, or managing construction debris, we offer dumpster rentals in various sizes to suit your needs. Our team can help you determine the right dumpster size and placement while ensuring you understand what materials are prohibited.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact us today at (863) 944-0756 for a free consultation and quote. We’ll happily work with your schedule to deliver and pick up your dumpster at times convenient for you. Our commitment to exceptional customer service and environmental responsibility makes us “the nicest dumpster rental company in Asheville.”

Thank you for doing your part to dispose of hazardous waste properly and protect the beautiful environment we all call home.