Frequently Asked Environmental Questions

Q: What should I do with old paint?

A: Water based paint can be dried out by removing the lids to an air vented area and stuffing it with newspaper or pouring cat litter in it and discard with normal household refuse.

Oil based paint should be taken to one of the household chemical collection sites in Hillsborough County. Please contact the City of Tampa Solid Waste Department at (813) 348-1157 for further information.

Q: I’m not sure if my trash is picked up by the City of Tampa or Hillsborough County. How can I find out?

A: If you see a solid waste charge on your City of Tampa utility bill, then you are a customer of the Tampa Solid Waste Department (813) 348-1111.

If you see a waste charge on your property tax bill, then you are a customer of the Hillsborough County Solid Waste Department (813) 272-5680.

Q: What should I do with my old fluorescent light bulbs?

A: Residents are not required to recycle spent fluorescent light bulbs, however, they are encouraged to take them to one of the household chemical collection centers in Hillsborough County. Please contact the City of Tampa Solid Waste Department at (813) 348-1157 for further information.

Q: What should I do with old tires?

A: You can place two (2) tires per pick-up out at the curb without rims. Rims can be taken to McKay Bay Transfer station or call (813) 348-1111 to order a special pick-up.

Q: What do I do with leftover household chemicals, such as: oil, insecticide, pesticide, pool chemicals, lawn supplies and automotive products?

A: Residents are encouraged to take these items to one of the household chemical collection sites in Hillsborough County. Please contact the City of Tampa Solid Waste Department at (813) 348-1157 for further information.

Q: What do I do with old batteries?

A: It is okay to dispose of alkaline and dry cell batteries with your regular household refuse. Residents are encouraged to take NiCad, rechargeable and car batteries to one of the household chemical collection sites in Hillsborough County. Please contact the City of Tampa Solid Waste Department at (813) 348-1157 for further information.

Q: How do I dispose of my old barbecue propane tank?

A: Residents are encourage to take 20 pound propane tanks to one of the household chemical collection sites in Hillsborough County. Please contact the City of Tampa Solid Waste Department at (813) 348-1157 for further information.

Q: How do I dispose of my old computer?

A: Residents are allowed to place one item, at curbside, per regular scheduled pick-up.

Q: What do I do with old railroad ties?

A: Please contact the City of Tampa Solid Waste Department at (813) 348-1157 for further information.