Frequently Asked Questions

What is Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)?

Any material that can be harmful to our health and environment unless properly used, stored, or disposed of can be considered as a hazardous waste. Words such as caution, warning, danger, or flammable on the label are clues the product may be a hazardous material. They may be corrosive, caustic, reactive, flammable, or toxic.

What is the HHWF?

The HHWF is a permanent location that will provide for the reuse of paints and other household products and act as a central point of collection for household hazardous wastes in Sioux Falls. It will serve the five county region also served by the Sioux Falls Regional Landfill (Minnehaha, Lincoln, Turner, Lake and McCook Counties).

The HHWF is designed as a drive through collection center where vehicles enter a covered drive-up area. A City staff person will check for residency in the five-county region and record the customer's address. An on-site contractor will screen wastes and unload vehicles. Materials will be accepted and sorted by the contractor into reuse and hazard categories.

How large is the HHWF?

The building is 90 feet X 60 feet (5,400 square feet) and includes areas for the handling and storage of different types of household hazardous waste, a reuse area for the public to obtain materials that have been brought in (such as latex paint), and office space. The HHWF also includes a heating system that will utilize waste oil as a fuel.

How much did the HHWF cost to construct?

The cost of the facility was just over $1 million and was constructed with Landfill user fees. The facility will also be operated with Landfill user fees.

Rethink, Reduce, and Reuse

Buy only what you need, use up the product according to directions, and buy less-toxic products or nonhazardous alternatives.

Storage

Store chemicals in original containers, with labels intact, and out of reach of children and pets. Never store near heat, sparks, flames, or in a wet/freezing location.

Need more information?

If you would like more specific information on the HHWF or recycling, call the City's Sustainablity Coordinator at (605) 367-8695

General information regarding the Landfill and recycling, including hours of operation, rates, and materials accepted can be found on the City's web site at http://www.siouxfalls.org/PublicWorks/solid_waste or by calling (605) 367-8162.