Hazardous waste
Service update
We are temporarily limiting the number of fridges and freezers accepted at the HWRCs, because a fire at a national recycling facility has reduced disposal capacity.
Only one domestic unit can be brought per visit to the recycling centre and I.D will be checked to ensure it has come from a North Northamptonshire residence.
If you have more than one fridge or freezer to dispose of, you are advised to use a licensed waste disposal company until normal service resumes. The council apologises for the inconvenience and appreciates your patience.
Hazardous waste is any liquid or solid material that may cause harm to people or the environment if not disposed of correctly. It is illegal to mix hazardous waste with other types of waste.
Certain types of hazardous waste are accepted at our recycling centres.
| Item | Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Antifreeze | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. 15 litres maximum quantity - Disposal of larger quantities will be subject to checks to confirm the antifreeze has come from a household source |
| Asbestos | No | Asbestos disposal guidance |
| Car batteries | Yes | |
| Clinical waste | No | Clinical waste guidance |
| Engine oil (used) | Yes | 15 litres maximum quantity - Disposal of larger quantities will be subject to checks to confirm the oil has come from a household source |
| Fire extinguishers | Yes | Must be domestic use - weighing less than 1kg. Refillable fire extinguishers should be returned to the manufacturer or supplier |
| Fluorescent tubes | Yes | |
| Fridges and freezers | Yes | |
| Gas bottles | Yes | Must be domestic use. Refillable gas bottles should be returned to the manufacturer or supplier |
| Household Chemicals | Yes | Up to 5 litres of hazardous household chemicals (read our full guidance) accepted per month |
| Industrial chemical and radioactive hazardous waste | No | We are unable to dispose of industrial chemical and radioactive hazardous waste. Please seek professional disposal advice |
| Insulation (fibreglass) | Yes | Please ensure it is bagged |
| Mercury | No | Please seek professional disposal advice |
| Oil filters (automotive) | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. Must be domestic use |
| Paint/varnish/stains | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. Must be domestic use |
| Portable batteries | Yes | |
| Sharps (such as medical needles) | No | See clinical waste |
| TVs and monitors | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. Must be domestic use |
| Tyres | No | Please check with your local garage or tyre retailer to see if they accept additional tyres. A small fee may be charged |
| Weed killer | Yes | Up to 5 litres of hazardous household chemicals (read our full guidance) accepted per month |
Last updated 19 January 2026