Sharps / Needle Disposal

Needles, syringes and lancets used for home healthcare are referred to as “sharps.” California law prohibits the disposal of sharps waste in the regular trash. Sharps waste poses a risk to trash collectors who may accidentally get stuck by a needle, syringe or lancet and be exposed to a blood or a disease. Your children, pets, housekeepers, and janitors may also be at risk of a needle stick if the needles are improperly stored or disposed.

Used sharps must not be thrown in the trash, flushed down the toilet or placed in recycling containers. The Fire Department does not accept or dispose of home healthcare used sharps.

Proper disposal of used home healthcare sharps is done by dropping them off at Escondido Disposal, INC., Waste and Recycling Service located at 1044 West Washington Avenue in Escondido. NOTE: All sharps must be in a sealed clear container.

Escondido Disposal Office Hours

Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm; Saturdays by Appointments only
Phone: (760) 745-3203 www.escondidodisposal.com 

Information about sharps disposal in San Diego County can be found at the County's Environmental Health and Quality website.