Spring cleaning in Erie County? You’ll have two chances in May to safely get rid of household items, completely free. Here’s how to sign up and what you can bring.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Erie County residents looking to safely dispose of unwanted household items during spring cleaning will have two free opportunities in May.
The Erie County Department of Environment and Planning said it will partner with local organizations to host special waste collection events in Williamsville and Buffalo. Officials said registration is required for both events, with appointments available on a first-come, first-served basis.
A paint and battery collection event is scheduled for Saturday, May 9 in Williamsville. A separate Household Hazardous Waste collection will take place in the City of Buffalo on Saturday, May 30.
County officials said exact event locations will only be shared with registered participants “in order to help keep waiting times reasonable.”
The May 9 event will focus specifically on paint and batteries. Lead-acid batteries, including car batteries, will not be accepted. In addition to latex and oil-based paint, accepted materials will include stains, shellacs, lacquers, sealers, varnishes, and urethanes.
The May 30 Household Hazardous Waste collection will be held in partnership with the City of Buffalo. Accepted waste there will include household cleaners, pesticides, pool chemicals, kerosine, gasoline, and fertilizers, as well as paint and batteries.
A complete list of accepted materials is available through the county recycling website.
Residents can register beginning 30 days before each event by visiting the website or calling the collection event information line at 716-858-6800.
For residents unable to attend either event, Erie County also offers a year-round HHW Voucher Drop-off Program. The service allows residents to bring up to 50 pounds of eligible household hazardous waste to a private facility in Tonawanda at no cost. Officials say the facility also accepts most paints free of charge.