I so seldom have to get rid of hazardous waste that when it comes time to do it, I forget where to go and what to do and what is even considered Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). 

If you're like me, here's the run down. 

Paints, pesticides, propane tanks, batteries, syringes, used motor oil and many cleaning products are just some examples of household hazardous wastes.  Anything with a 'toxic', 'poisonous' or 'corrosive' symbol on it is also HHW.  These items contain toxic ingredients and should be used and disposed of with caution. Do not place out for regular garbage pick-up. Never pour motor oil, paints or solvents down your drain or into sewers.

FYI The Home Depot now has a nation-wide paint-can, battery and CFL bulb recovery program.  Just bring these items in and leave them at the drop off area.

You know those compact fluorescent bulbs (and tubes) you use to conserve energy, they are also to be disposed of at these HHW areas.  Although they aren't 'legally' considered a HHW, they do contain small amounts of mercury and other heavy metals and therefore shouldn't be thrown in the trash.  The city of Toronto sends them to a recycler in Kitchener where the materials are seperated and reused.

Most municipalities have a handfull of HHW days organized throughout the year.  Call your municipal office or surf their website to find out when the next one is.

In Toronto, here are your options for disposing of your HHW: