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1. How can I dispose of latex paint?

Latex paint can be recycled all year long at any one of our 13 convenience sites. No need to hold onto it until the next household hazardous waste collection event, bring it to any one of our convenience sites for disposal.

2. How can I dispose of spray paint and oil-based paint?

Spray paints and oil based paints should be held until the household hazardous waste collection event. If the containers are empty, they may be disposed of in the regular trash.

3. How can I dispose of household batteries? Is there a difference between single use and rechargeable?

Everyday Batteries

Everyday common non-rechargeable batteries (i.e. AA, AAA, C, D) can be disposed of in the regular trash. This is because most manufacturers have reformulated the batteries to not include heavy metals like mercury. The removal of these metals from the batteries means that they no longer contain any items classified as hazardous by the Environmental Protection Agency. It is important to remember to not dispose of large quantities of batteries together, as even dead batteries may still hold partial charges. If the batteries make contact they may produce a safety risk.

Rechargeable Batteries

But what about rechargeable batteries? Due to their chemical makeup, rechargeable batteries cannot be disposed of in the regular trash. For the nearest recyclers of rechargeable and cell phone batteries, visit the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation and use their quick and easy search tool.

4. What can I dispose of year round?

Some items that can be poured down the drain inside your home, if you are on the County Water and Sewer systems (Do not pour down storm drains or in septic systems):

• Ammonia based cleaners (Windex, Glass Plus, etc)
• Drain cleaners (Drano, Liquid Plumber, etc)
• Most bathroom cleaners (Pine-Sol, etc)

Some items that can be disposed of, along with the regular trash:

• Empty containers of any kind if they have been triple rinsed.
• Batteries: alkaline and carbon zinc

5. How can I reduce the amount of hazardous materials in my home?

• Use alternatives to hazardous products (i.e. natural cleaners - baking soda, vinegar, ammonia, etc.)
• Read the label. Investigate the product's dangers before you make the purchase.
• Buy only what you need to get the job done.
• Share or donate unused portions with family, friends, charity, etc.
• Waste oil, kerosene, antifreeze and propane tanks can be brought to County facilities year round.

See Solid Waste Centers for the options nearest you.

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1. Where can I recycle?

Spotsylvania Recycles offers recycling options at the County's 13 convenience centers. However, not all items are accepted at all convenience centers; to see the recycling options nearest to you, see Center Locations. Staff is working to make all recycling options available at all Convenience Centers in the near future. We are always looking for ideas and comments from the public on how to improve recycle programs, so email Recycle Ideas.

2. What can I recycle?

Spotsylvania Recycles bases collection off of a Single Stream Program. This program allows residents the ease and convenience of placing all acceptable materials into a single hopper. This enhanced recycling program decreases the amount of trash generated and increases the diversion/recycling rate, saving valuable Landfill space.

Single Stream Recycling (PDF) allows you to mix all your recycling into one container. Staff has evaluated other options and has found that this method is the most economical to the taxpayer in meeting state mandated recycling goals. Staff will continue to explore new options to continue to seek the most economical form of recycling for its customers. No Plastic Bags or Styrofoam.

For more information, view the Accepted Items page.