Household

Hazardous

Waste

Why is Proper Disposal Important?

Proper disposal of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) is essential to protecting our environment and community health. OLCD’s program ensures hazardous materials are managed responsibly, keeping them out of landfills, waterways, and natural habitats.

Household Hazardous Waste includes materials such as oil, pesticides, fertilizers, and cleaners that if disposed of improperly can contaminate ground and surface water, threaten human health and wildlife, and pose risks to children and pets.

Pouring these hazardous substances down drains allows them to enter local waterways untreated, while dumping them on the ground can lead to area groundwater contamination. In Michigan, hazardous waste is not permitted in landfills and should never be thrown in the trash.

This event is made possible through partnerships, dedicated volunteers, and contributions from community members.

Every donation and volunteer effort strengthens our ability to host a successful collection day each year, helping to keep our local resources clean and safe.

Household Hazardous
Waste Day

⚠️

⚠️

Annually on the 1st Thursday in August

2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Wenger Pavilion, Downtown Baldwin

(Behind Jones Ice Cream Parlor)

2026 HHW Brochure
2026 HHW Flier

 FAQs

  • This program is available exclusively to Osceola and Lake County residents.

    Materials will not be accepted from businesses, except for pesticides, which are accepted from all users through the Clean Sweep Program. Any renter, homeowner, farm, greenhouse, nursery, golf course, or other end user of pesticides may use this service; however, pesticide dealers and commercial applicators (those who apply pesticides for hire) are not eligible.

  • Pre-registration is required for amounts exceeding 200 pounds. Please call us ahead of time at 989-309-9229.

  • No. Hazardous waste must be dropped off at the collection site only during the scheduled hours. We work with licensed professionals who are authorized to handle and dispose of these materials properly. We are not permitted to store hazardous waste at our office.

  • Donations are crucial to help cover the $60,000 it takes to host the event in three counties. Suggested minimum donation of $15 is appreciated!

  • Latex paint is not considered hazardous waste, so we cannot accept it. To dispose of it, allow it to dry by removing the lid or mixing in a drying agent such as paint hardener, sawdust, or cat litter. Once dried, it can be placed in your regular trash.

    You can also donate latex paint to organizations like Habitat for Humanity.

  • We cannot accept the following items:

    • ammunition

    • electronics

    • explosives

    • household trash

    • infectious medical waste

    • large appliances

    • latex paint

    • radioactive materials

    • Styrofoam

    • tires

    • waste from spills

    Additionally, construction and remodeling waste such as drywall, tiles, shingles, insulation, and wood or metal scraps are not accepted.

    • Tires – We hold a tire recycling event annually on the second Thursday in August. Visit our Tire Recycling page for more information.

    • Electronics – Call the Osceola-Lake Conservation District at (231) 465-8012, or St. Michael School at (989) 967-3681.

    • Medication – Contact the Ten 16 Recovery Network at (231) 527-1499 for locations of medical disposal boxes.

    • Latex Paint – If completely dry, it can be placed in your normal household trash. To dry it, leave the lid off and add kitty litter, sawdust, or a paint hardener.

    • Ammunition or Explosives – Call the Sheriff’s office:

      • Lake County: (231) 745-2712

      • Osceola County: (231) 832-2288

    • Radioactive Materials – Call the Nuclear Regulatory Commission Hotline at 1-800-233-3497.

    • Construction / Remodeling Waste – Contact your local waste hauler for disposal options.

    • Appliances and Furniture

      • The INC Spot: (231) 832-9495 (no large appliances)

      • Community Thrift Center: (231) 745-2551

      • Mecosta County Habitat for Humanity ReStore: (231) 972-2100

      • M&J New & Used Furniture: (231) 357-9861 (must be in working condition)

      • Al Lepard: (231) 734-5287 (non-working appliances in Osceola County)

    • Batteries – Rechargeable batteries are accepted at Lowe’s in Big Rapids. Household batteries (alkaline, carbon zinc, manganese) can be disposed of with regular trash. Automotive batteries can be taken to area auto parts stores or Mecosta County Recycle.

Want to get involved?

Volunteers play a vital role by assisting with unloading items, directing traffic, collecting donations, and organizing materials to keep the event running smoothly.

If you'd like to join us, we'd love to have you on the team!
Sign up below to help make a difference.

Volunteer