Toxic, corrosive, reactive and flammable materials present common household disposal challenges. They can contaminate the air, soil, wastewater treatment systems and drinking water supplies if managed or disposed of improperly. These materials may also be a health risk to family members, especially children, if handled improperly.

For this reason, MWA has established the Regional Collection Center (RCC) for household hazardous waste. This facility was built in 1994 and is funded through fees charged at the Metro Park East Landfill. Because of this funding, residents can bring their household hazardous waste to the RCC with no drop-off fee. The RCC is a permanent facility open year-round and has replaced the annual "Toxic Waste Cleanup Days" held in these areas in the past.

Usable materials collected at the RCC, such as paint, cleaners and automotive products, are available to the public at the RCC Swap Shop free of charge.

In addition to MWA planning committee areas, household hazardous waste drop-off is also available to 22 counties surrounding Polk County at the RCC and through the efforts of the RCC's "Clean Up Crew."

The Clean up Crew provides satellite drop-off sites and two mobile collection units that hold events from April through October. 

For more information about the Regional Collection Center, its location, hours and acceptable materials, click here.