Last Chance: Drop Off Hazardous Materials, Get A Free Tree

St. Charles County residents can drop off hazardous household waste safely at Recycle Works Central at 60 Triad South Dr. in St. Charles starting April 17. 

Items typically not collected by curbside recycling programs, including chemicals, automobile fluids, pesticides, and oil-based paints (latex paints are not accepted) can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, and the last Saturday of each month, with no appointment necessary. 

There is a nominal $10 fee for loads up to 50 pounds, with additional fees for larger sized collections. Check out this list of the materials accepted at the facility, or call (636) 949-1800.  This service is open to St. Charles County residents only, and proof of residency may be required.

Free tree saplings will be given to all residents that safely dispose of their goods from April 17-22. All trees will be native Missouri varieties, with a species available including: Norway Spruce, Black Walnut, Pecan, Red Bud, Shellbark Hickory, Willow Oak, Pin Oak, Flowering Dogwood, Persimmon, Paw Paw, Blackberry, Wild Plum and Red Mulberry.

To ensure safety, please follow these precautions in bringing hazardous waste to Recycle Works Central:

1)      Make certain that the waste is properly packed and do not mix with other materials.

2)      Wherever possible, leave materials in their original containers.  Items that are not in their original packaging should be clearly labeled with their contents.  Mixed waste in plastic bags will not be accepted.

3)      Be sure the lid is securely attached.

4)      Place the material inside a box that is lined with newspaper (filling gaps with additional crumpled newspaper will help prevent spills during transport to the facility)

5)      Place the filled box in the trunk of your vehicle while transporting to Recycle Works Central.

6)      Upon arrival at the facility, please remain in your vehicle until assisted.

- Information provided by Doug Bolnick, public information officer for .