Investing in You

The spring collection event for scrap tires, household hazardous waste, batteries, and Styrofoam is coming up this weekend on May 11. We've been getting a lot of phone calls this week, so we've compiled this list of frequently asked questions. 

I have questions that were not answered below – who do I call? 

While the County Solid Waste Department organized the fairground site for scrap tires, batteries, etc., we did not plan the household hazardous waste event out at Wacker Chemical, or any of the collections at Goodwill. Please reach out to Wacker at (517) 264-8500 or Goodwill at (517) 263-2135.

Where do I take my stuff? 

Different items go to one of the three different locations!

• Tires, batteries, packing supplies and Styrofoam can be taken to the fairground
• Household hazardous waste is being collected at Wacker Chemical, 3301 Sutton Road
• E-waste, such as TVs and computers, along with documents for shredding, can be taken after 9 a.m. to Goodwill Recycling Center, 1357 Division (not the store on the Wal-Mart side, but the administration site next to Lowe’s).

I have more than 10 tires – can I bring them? 

No, the limit at our scrap tire collection event is 10 tires per vehicle. Not only does this requirement keep the line moving steadily – state law has regulations that state you can only haul that many before being considered a hauler and face higher regulations. If you have the time to go through the line twice, you are welcome to pick up a second load of 10 to bring to the event.

Is there a limit as to how much household hazardous waste I can bring? 

Wacker and Anderson are requesting you limit your HHW to 10 gallons per drop, and in containers no more than 5 gallons.

Will they take helium or propane tanks (like from a camping cookstove) at the HHW collection? 

No, they will not. Call Baker Gas in Tecumseh at 517-423-0904 and they may be able to help you dispose of them.

I will not be able to make it to the event. What should I do with my stuff? 

If you have scrap tires, the county will be hosting another collection event in the fall. Stay tuned to the county site for more details.

For those with household hazardous waste – Recycle Ann Arbor accepts motor oils, vegetable oils, and light bulbs. They charge by the vehicle, and the cost is $3 per day for standard vehicles and $15 per day for large vehicles.

ERG Environmental in Livonia accepts most household hazardous waste. They charge $.75 per pound, with a $25 minimum.

Good news for those with electronic waste and shredding – Goodwill now collects this year-round! Just go to the recycling center on Division Street any time during their open hours. Some fees may apply, so call in advance at 517-263-2135.