Columbia County sets 2026 household hazardous waste collection schedule

Columbia County’s Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department has announced its 2026 schedule of free Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events, continuing an annual program that provides residents with a safe way to dispose of hazardous materials that do not belong in regular trash or recycling.

HHW events are held each year to support environmental protection efforts and reduce risks to public health and safety. The 2026 schedule includes multiple collection opportunities in St. Helens, along with remote events in other communities.

Four HHW events will be held at the Columbia County Transfer Station (1601 Railroad Ave. in St. Helens) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. the following Saturdays: Feb. 28, June 6, Aug. 22, and Oct. 24.

Three remote HHW collection events are also scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 11 in Vernonia, Saturday, May 16 in Rainier, and Saturday, Oct. 3 in Clatskanie.

HHW events accept many common household hazardous materials, including paints, fuels, automotive fluids, batteries, lawn and garden chemicals, pool and spa chemicals, and propane cylinders (limits apply). Garbage, pharmaceuticals, asbestos, and large-volume liquids are not accepted. Residents are encouraged to review the event flyer or visit the County’s website for a full list of accepted and prohibited materials.

Materials must be transported securely and placed in a vehicle’s trunk, bed, or hatchback. Trained staff will unload items, and participants should remain in their vehicles while on site. Containers used to transport liquids will not be returned, a standard practice that helps reduce wait times. Medical sharps, including needles and syringes, are accepted when sealed in OSHA-approved, puncture-proof containers, which are available at the Transfer Station Scale House.

HHW events are open to Columbia County residents only. Proof of residency may be requested. Commercial or organizational waste is not accepted, and the County may limit the amount of waste collected per household. Materials not accepted at HHW events — including those from Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) or liquids in containers larger than five gallons — require advance arrangements. Residents should contact Marc Winkler with ACT Enviro at 916-693-4496 at least two weeks before an event to schedule an appointment.

For more information, residents may contact Solid Waste Coordinator Tatum Flowers at 503-397-7259 or visit columbiacountyor.gov.