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Hazardous waste

Household, garden and pool chemicals are dangerous to the community and the environment. They must not be put in any of your bins at home. Hazardous household waste includes chemicals, insecticides, varnishes and solvents from your kitchen, bathroom, laundry and garden shed.

A drop-off depot for chemicals and paint is now open 7 days a week at:

Adelaide Waste and Recycling Centre

181 Morphett Road, North Plympton
Open Monday-Friday 7am-4pm, Saturday 8am-3pm, Sunday 10am-3pm

Large quantities of commercial chemicals from businesses will not be accepted. Householders and trade painters can dispose of up to 100 litres of paint.

Items accepted
  • Acids and alkalis
  • Batteries
  • Brake fluids and coolants
  • Cleaning products
  • Cooking oil
  • Fluorescent light globes
  • Fumigants
  • Garden chemicals - pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides
  • Gas cylinders
  • Liquid paint - up to 100 litres
  • Motor oil, fuel, lubricants
  • Photographic chemicals
  • Poisons
  • Pool chemicals
  • Solvents - including paint thinners, turpentine
  • Varnishes and stains
  • Other household chemicals
Items not accepted
  • Ammunition or explosives - contact SA Police on 131 444
  • Asbestos and tyres - contact the EPA 8204 2004
  • Empty containers
  • Fertiliser - use or donate to a community garden
  • Pharmaceuticals - dispose of at your local pharmacy or visit returnmed.com.au for locations
  • Household smoke detectors - these can be put in your waste bin
Drop-off instructions

•Prior to transporting, ensure lids are tightly fitted and hazardous wastes are securely packed in a non-returnable crate or box. Place any leaking containers into a sealed container prior to transportation.

•Keep original labels on containers or put labels on known chemicals

•Package all materials securely to avoid spills

•Place old containers in plastic bags or buckets to avoid leaks

•Transport chemicals in your vehicle boot or trailer for easy and safe handling

•Always handle hazardous wastes carefully and avoid direct contact. Wear protective gear/equipment as needed.

Note: no containers or boxes will be returned as these are not emptied on site.

The drop-off service at North Plympton is provided free of charge by State Government for all households and other drop-off sites for household chemicals and paint will be opening soon.
For information about other locations, visit the Green Industries SA website (refer to link below).

There are numerous local safe disposal options for paint, gas cylinders, batteries, motor oil, light globes, smoke alarms, x-rays, sharps and other hazardous items listed on our Other waste page (refer to link below).

Further information