9 Items That Are Illegal to ‘Throw Away’ in Iowa & Could Cost You
Cleaning out the garage, clearing space in the basement, or finally tackling that junk drawer? Before you start tossing things into garbage bags, there are a few items you should think twice about throwing away in Iowa.
In the rush to declutter, it’s important to remember that not everything can simply be tossed out. Some items require special handling due to their hazardous materials or environmental impact. To ensure you’re disposing of things responsibly, here's a list of items that are illegal to throw away in Iowa, why they need to be handled with care, and what happens if you're not doing it right.
9) Electronics (E-Waste):
Items like televisions, computers, and cell phones contain hazardous materials, including lead, mercury, and cadmium. These can leach into soil and groundwater if tossed in the landfill, so Iowa law requires these items be recycled to prevent environmental contamination. Fines typically range from $100 to $500 for individual violations. Instead of risking the fine, look for an electronics recycling program, a participating retailer, or a local collection event.
8) Batteries:
Lead-acid batteries (e.g., car batteries) and rechargeable batteries contain heavy metals that are harmful to the environment. These should be taken to recycling facilities because improper disposal can cause toxic materials to seep into groundwater or contribute to fires at landfills. Disposing of these improperly can lead to penalties of up to $25 per battery and potential environmental cleanup costs if contamination occurs. If a lithium-ion battery causes a fire (becoming more common) fines and fees may rise exponentially. Keep damaged or swollen lithium-ion batteries away from heat and follow local guidance for safe handling.
7) Paints and Paint Thinners:
Oil-based paints, paint thinners, and related chemicals are considered household hazardous waste in Iowa due to their toxic components. They cannot be disposed of in regular trash because they can pollute water sources and pose health risks. Individual fines can range from $100 to $500. Larger organizations or businesses could face fines ranging from $10,000 to $37,500 per day based on the severity of the violation.
Contact an Iowa Regional Collection Center or your local solid waste agency for instructions. Don't pour leftover paint or solvents into a storm drain, onto the ground, or down a household drain. Follow local guidance for empty paint containers and dried latex paint.
6) Pesticides and Herbicides:
These contain chemicals harmful to both humans and the environment. Improper disposal can contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife, so Iowa requires special drop-off programs for safe disposal. Penalties may include fines of up to $10,000 per day, especially for larger-scale dumping or contamination that impacts public health or the environment. It's always a good idea to keep these products in their original, labeled containers and contact a Collection Center for disposal instructions.
5) Motor Oil, Filters, & Anti-Freeze:
Used motor oil and oil filters must be recycled, as they contain pollutants like hydrocarbons and heavy metals that can severely damage ecosystems if discarded in landfills. Again, penalties may include fines of up to $10,000 per day, especially for larger-scale dumping or contamination that impacts public health or the environment.
If you're doing vehicle maintenance, used motor oil and oil filters need to be disposed of at a participating collection location. Ask your local solid waste agency or Regional Collection Center how to handle antifreeze and other automotive chemicals.
4) Fluorescent Bulbs:
These contain mercury, which is a neurotoxin. If broken in a landfill, mercury can vaporize and contaminate air and water, so fluorescent bulbs must be recycled or disposed of through special programs. Individuals typically face fines ranging from $100 to $500, depending on local ordinances. Businesses and larger institutions are subject to stricter enforcement. The EPA (under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, or RCRA) can issue fines of up to $37,500 per violation, per day for improper disposal of hazardous materials like mercury-containing bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs should be disposed of at an appropriate collection or recycling location. Handle them carefully to avoid breaking, and follow local instructions if one does.
3) Tires:
Tires are banned from landfills because they take up too much space, can trap methane gases, and create fire hazards. They must be recycled at approved facilities. Violators may face fines ranging from $200 to $1,000, depending on the number of tires improperly disposed of. Repeat offenders may face higher penalties.
Instead, ask a tire retailer, tire recycler, or local solid waste agency about approved drop-off options. Don't dump tires on vacant land, bury them, burn them, or drop them in our rivers.
2) Appliances (White Goods):
Items like refrigerators, air conditioners, and ovens contain hazardous materials like refrigerants and PCBs. They must be properly recycled to ensure the safe disposal of these toxic substances. Improper disposal of refrigerants is a violation of federal laws (Clean Air Act) and can result in penalties of up to $37,500 per day for noncompliance.
When preparing to toss out large appliances, contact your city, local landfill, or solid waste agency about appliance collection and recycling programs. Some retailers also offer removal of old appliances when delivering replacements.
1) Pharmaceuticals:
Disposing of medications through the regular trash or flushing them down the toilet can contaminate water systems. Iowa recommends using drug take-back programs to ensure safe disposal. While not heavily fined at the individual level, state or local health authorities may impose fines for large-scale violations or negligence by institutions.
4 Bonus Items You Should Think Twice About Throwing Away
In addition to the nine items above, there are a few other household items that may require special handling or disposal.
- Propane Tanks and Cylinders: Old grill tanks and camping cylinders can retain flammable gas, creating fire and explosion hazards. Contact a propane supplier or local collection facility for proper disposal instructions.
- Household Cleaners and Aerosol Products: Drain cleaners, oven cleaners, pesticides, and some aerosol cans may contain corrosive, toxic, or flammable chemicals. Check the product label and contact your local household hazardous waste facility for guidance.
- Asbestos-Containing Materials: Certain older insulation, flooring, and building materials may contain asbestos. Disturbing them can release dangerous fibers into the air. If you suspect asbestos, avoid disturbing the material and consult a qualified professional about testing and disposal.
- Chemically Treated Wood: Older deck boards, fence posts, and landscaping timbers may contain chemicals that can be harmful when burned. Never burn treated wood in a backyard fire pit or wood stove, and check local solid waste guidance for proper disposal.
Remember as you go to declutter, what you throw out could come back to haunt you. To avoid legal and environmental consequences, take advantage of Iowa’s numerous recycling programs and hazardous waste collection events. These programs make it easy to safely dispose of items that could otherwise harm the environment. By staying informed and disposing of these items correctly, you’ll keep your home tidy, help protect Iowa’s natural resources.
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