If you’re doing a little winter cleaning or finally tackling that messy garage, here’s something every Hoosier should know: there are certain items you can’t legally toss in the trash here in Indiana.
Some everyday household items can be harmful to our health, our water, and our environment if they’re not disposed of properly. So, before you drag everything to the curb, let’s talk about what needs special handling.
What Counts As Household Hazardous Waste
This includes products that are ignitable, toxic, reactive, or corrosive. Think things like paint, chemicals, cleaning supplies, automotive fluids, and certain lawn products. Pouring these down the drain, dumping them on the ground, tossing them in storm sewers, or mixing them with regular trash is actually illegal.
These things can contaminate soil and water and pose serious health risks. But, Indiana makes it easy to do the right thing. Your local Solid Waste Management District can point you toward safe disposal days and drop-off locations.
Electronics That Are Banned From Indiana Landfills
If it runs on electricity or batteries, it probably falls into this category. TVs, computers, printers, old cell phones, and other electronics have actually been banned from regular trash disposal in Indiana since 2011…