Where Coachella, Idyllwild Can Dispose Of Hazardous-Waste For Free

PALM DESERT, CA — Residents of the desert communities in Coachella, Idywild and surrounding areas can take advantage of two free hazardous waste disposal collection events on Oct. 12 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The first event will be hosted in Coachella at Bagdouma Park Swim Center Parking Lot; 84625 Bagdad Ave., and the second will be held in Idyllwild at County Road Yard; 25780 Johnson Rd.

All Riverside County residents are welcome to bring items considered hazardous to keep such waste out of county landfills. However, this event is only for household waste. Waste from businesses or nonprofits will not be accepted.

Here's what will be accepted:

• Motor oil
• Paint
• Antifreeze
• Household and automotive batteries
• Pesticides
• Cleaning products
• Sharps (needles/syringes or lancets) in a container
• Unused medication (except controlled substances)
• Florescent lamps
• Electronic waste such as televisions, computers, VCRs and telephones.

The amount of waste you bring should be no more than 15 gallons or 125 pounds maximum per vehicle. Containers should be no larger than five gallons nor weigh more than 50 pounds.

Explosives, radioactive material, ammunition, asbestos, compressed-gas cylinders over 40 pounds or infectious or medical waste other than sharps will not be accepted.

You can contact the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources at 951-486-3200 or 800-304-2226.