Household Waste FAQ

Q: How do I dispose of used cooking oil and grease?

Cooking oil and grease are not accepted at RDCK facilities.

For more information and a list of participating recyclers contact the Recycling Council of BC Recycling Hotline: 1-800-667-4321.

Q: What do I do if I see someone dumping household waste illegally?

Illegal dumping is a serious offense that affects all of us. When people opt to toss their waste into the bush or other undesirable locations they are trashing your backyard. We all have a responsibility to look after and maintain our environment and we should all take this responsibility seriously.

It is important to include as many details as possible if you are going to make a report regarding an illegal dumping situation. To report illegal dumping at an RDCK landfill or transfer station CALL: 1-800-268-RDCK (7325) or e-mail wastedept@rdck.bc.ca.

If you observe someone littering, dumping household waste, yard & garden waste or other loads of refuse, here are some tips:

• Record the date, time, location and weather conditions
  
• Identify the violator(s) and companions or an accurate description of them
  
• Record the vehicle license number and description
  
• If you have a camera, take pictures of the evidence at the scene without alarming the violator(s)
  
• Call the Ministry of Environment to report littering, illegal dump sites, burn barrels, unauthorized use of a dumpster or dumping chemicals, pesticides, used automotive fluids and other pollutants.
  Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) 1-877-952-7277
  

Q: What is a transfer station?

A transfer station is an intermediate facility in the waste system where local municipalities, residents and businesses drop off their waste in bins. The bins are then transported to the landfill for final disposal.

Q: Can I take items from a landfill or transfer station?

No. Scavenging is prohibited at all RDCK landfills and transfer stations as outlined in our Bylaw.

Q: How can I dispose of my household hazardous waste such as paint, pesticides, solvents & fertilizers, etc.?

Hazardous waste and free liquids are banned from RDCK resourece recovery facilities. Call 1-800-667-4321 or www.rcbc.bc.ca to find out where to dispose of these products.

Q: How can I dispose of my old prescription drugs?

The Post Consumer Pharmaceutical Association of BC manages unused, expired medications in the province of BC. Most pharmacies accept old medications or syringes for safe disposal at no cost to residents. Call your local pharmacy ahead of time to ensure they are participating in the program.

For a complete list of disposal locations contact the Recycling Council of BC Recycling Hotline at 1-800-667-4321.

Q: Where can I dispose of drywall?

Drywall is accepted at any of the RDCK landfills or transfer stations at the mixed waste fee. Both residential and commercial quantities are acceptable.

Q: Where can I dispose of drywall containing asbestos?

Drywall containing asbestos is accepted at any RDCK landfill with 48 hours prior notice given to the RDCK. If you are unsure as to the type of asbestos you are dealing with (friable or non-friable) call a professional asbestos removal company. A special removal or transport manifest may be required.

For more information contact the RDCK at 1-800-268-7325 or e-mail wastedept@rdck.bc.ca

Q: What are the different types of asbestos?

Asbestos materials are classified as either Friable or Non-Friable asbestos.

Non-Friable Asbestos - Non-friable asbestos can only be reduced to a powder by use of a mechanical device or means other than hand pressure, i.e. drilling, sanding, or abrading.This type of non-friable asbestos is typically found in some vinyl/asbestos floor tiles or fume hood linings and ducting in older buildings.

Friable Asbestos - Friable materials are those items which, when dry, can be easily crumbled, crushed or rendered into powder with basic hand pressure. There is a higher element of airborne dust levels in instances of disturbed friable asbestos material. The main areas in a building where one will find friable asbestos are Sprayed Fireproofing, Mechanical Insulation and Texture Coat Finishes.
*Note that this material must be contained in a double bag system; must be manifested or documented as required by the RDCK and by the British Columbia Ministry of Environment; and Forty-eight (48) hours advance notice must be given to the Regional District prior to disposal.*