Hazardous Wastes

Stanley the Striped Bass holding hazardous waste containerBoating-Related Hazardous Wastes

Boaters use many products to clean and maintain their boats. Many cleaning and maintenance products are considered hazardous waste, such as: antifreeze, lead-acid batteries, used oil and oil filters, oil or fuel saturated absorbents, solvents, paints, zincs, varnishes, and cleaning products. The use of these products can sometimes result in spills and leftovers that require disposal. Hazardous wastes are toxic to human health and marine life and should be disposed of at a hazardous waste disposal facility. Find these facilities quickly and easily by visiting CalRecycle, calling (800) CLEANUP (253-2687) or asking your marina operator.

Disposal Strategies

  • Lead-acid Batteries: Retailers take the old battery for disposal when you purchase a new one. Ask if your marina accepts old batteries for proper disposal. Learn more about lead-acid batteries and proper disposal at the Battery Council International.
  • Antifreeze and Transmission Fluid: A variety of automotive repair shops and household hazardous waste disposal facilities accept these wastes.
  • Oil & Filters: View oil and filter recycling information.
  • Zincs: Take old zinc anodes to a scrap metal recycler; some will buy them back.
  • Freon: Venting Freon into the atmosphere is illegal. Only certified technicians can purchase Freon, service units and handle Freon.
  • Flares: Flares cannot be recycled, but special care should be taken with their disposal. To dispose of expired flares, contact your local household hazardous waste collection facility or fire department.
  • Keep recyclable hazardous waste separated from other waste and take it to a local household hazardous waste collection facility to be recycled.
  • Check your inventory of stored hazardous products every six months and properly dispose of old or unnecessary products.

Helpful Resources for Disposing of Hazardous Wastes