How to Safely Recycle Hazardous Materials in Hays County: What Residents Need to Know
Improperly disposing of hazardous household items may seem harmless in the moment, but it can have lasting impacts on local waterways, soil, wildlife, and even public health. For Hays County residents, the good news is that there are clear, accessible options for recycling and disposing of certain materials safely—when you know where to go and what’s accepted.
Hays County operates two Recycling and Solid Waste facilities that serve residents across the county, offering responsible disposal options while helping keep neighborhoods clean and environmentally healthy.
Where Hays County Residents Can Recycle
Hays County Recycling and Solid Waste facilities are located in Wimberley and Driftwood, both open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Residents are asked to arrive early enough to unload materials by 4:00 p.m., with large loads arriving no later than 3:30 p.m.
The Wimberley facility is located at 1691 Carney Lane, while the Driftwood location can be found at 20290 FM 150 West. Both sites are staffed with attendants to help ensure materials are sorted properly and safely.
What Can Be Recycled — and What Cannot
While many common household items are accepted, it’s important to note that most hazardous household chemicals are not accepted at these centers. Items such as paints, solvents, pesticides, pool chemicals, gasoline, and flammable liquids must be taken to designated hazardous waste collection events or facilities—not regular recycling centers.
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However, the county does accept certain potentially harmful items when handled properly, including batteries, motor oil, and antifreeze, along with standard recyclables like aluminum cans, glass bottles, paper, cardboard, and #1 and #2 plastic bottles.
Why Proper Disposal Matters for the Community
Hazardous materials don’t just disappear when thrown away incorrectly. They can leach into groundwater, create fire risks, and contaminate soil—issues that directly affect Hays County’s rural landscapes, creeks, and neighborhoods. By following county guidelines and using approved disposal options, residents play a direct role in protecting local ecosystems and keeping waste workers safe.
County officials also ask visitors to follow facility rules, including rinsing recyclables, removing lids from glass containers, and sorting materials correctly to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently.
For residents unsure about how to dispose of specific hazardous items, checking county resources before discarding them can prevent costly mistakes and environmental harm. Responsible recycling isn’t just about waste—it’s about stewardship, and in Hays County, that responsibility is shared by everyone who calls the community home.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.