Hazardous waste

Hazardous waste is harmful to human health and the environment. It must be handled with care and you must make sure that you dispose of it safely.

We cannot accept this type of waste in your bins or at the recycling centre.

Disposing of hazardous waste unlawfully can lead to a fine of up to £50,000, imprisonment or both.

City of London collection

The City of London Hazardous Waste Service can collect:

• asbestos
• chemicals
• oil-based paints or varnishes

Book a collection with the City of London Hazardous Waste service.

Private company collection

Some private companies offer collections of hazardous waste. Make sure you check they’re licensed to carry and dispose of hazardous waste before you employ them.

The company should:

• be licensed as a waste carrier from the Environment Agency
• have a consignment notice
• give you a copy of the consignment note when they have removed your waste - keep this for your records in case the waste is not disposed of correctly and investigated

Check the Environment Agency website for more information and a record of all registered waste carriers.

Ask the supplier

You may be able to ask the company that you got the item from to take the old one and dispose of it. This includes:

• gas bottles
• tyres