Waste Management Collier County

Household Hazardous Waste Program:

The Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Department’s (SHWMD) mission is to provide an efficient, safe and convenient programs for the collection and proper disposal of household materials for residents and small businesses in Collier County.

Households often use and store many chemical products that are hazardous. Products such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides contain potentially hazardous ingredients requiring special care when being disposed of. Improper disposal of these chemical products include pouring them down a drain, on the ground, into storm sewers or, in some cases, putting them out with the trash. The dangers of such disposal methods might not be immediately obvious, but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a serious threat to human health.

All SHWMD Recycling Drop-off Centers collect used oil, antifreeze, gasoline, diesel fuel, used oil filters, electronics, fluorescent bulbs and latex paint. These items are removed from our facilities by certified hazardous waste management vendors for final disposal, promoting a safe and healthy environment for our residents.

Enhanced Small Quantity Generator Inspection Program
To protect public health, safety, and the environment from the improper management of hazardous waste, SHWMD staff perform regular Compliance Assistance Verification (CAV) inspections of businesses that have the potential to generate, store, transport, or dispose of hazardous waste in Collier County. Each year more than 1/5 of the more than 5, 000 businesses receive CAV inspections.

Through this program, generators of hazardous waste are educated as to their legal responsibilities regarding managing/disposing of hazardous waste. During on-site inspections staff request and examine documentation that identifies the types of waste generated and how the waste is disposed of. Documentation may consist of hazardous waste manifests, shipping documents, and/or a bill of lading. In most cases, CAV inspections are unannounced. In addition to documenting any compliance issues, staff makes suggestions regarding waste reduction, recycling, and other best management practices for hazardous waste management and disposal.

This program is a means of complying with Collier County's Water Pollution Control Program Ordinance 89-20; Florida Statues 403.7225, 403.7234, 403.7236, and 403.7238; Collier County's NPDES Permit Requirements; Growth Management Plan CCME Elements; and, the Collier County Land Development Code Section 3.06, Ground Water Protection.

Pollutant Storage Tank Compliance Verification Program

The Pollutant Storage Tank Compliance Verification Program strives to provide businesses with detailed information concerning the equipment and environmental status at pollutant storage tank facilities located in Collier County. SHWMD staff will provide thorough follow-up of inquiries and experienced feedback, in a professional relationship with our business tank facility owners, concerned citizens, contractors, engineers, environmental consultants, real estate agents, attorneys and other government agencies.