When you think about digging in your yard, it might seem like a simple way to get rid of certain things. However, there are specific items that you legally shouldn’t bury on your property because doing so can cause environmental harm or break local laws.
Knowing what not to bury can save you from fines and potential health risks. It’s important to be aware of these rules so you can protect both your property and your community.
Expired Medications
You should never bury expired medications. When buried, chemicals from the drugs can seep into the soil and contaminate groundwater. This can harm the environment and potentially affect your water supply.
Besides the environmental risks, many places have laws against burying medications. It’s often illegal and can lead to fines. A safer option is to use pharmacy take-back programs or DEA-sponsored events for disposal.
Burning expired meds isn’t any better because it releases toxic fumes. So skip burying or burning—stick to approved disposal methods to stay safe and legal.
Pets that died from contagious diseases
If your pet dies from a contagious disease, burying them yourself can pose risks. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, or fungal infections can linger in the soil and spread to other animals.
You could accidentally expose other pets or local wildlife to these illnesses. Plus, some areas have laws against burying animals with infectious diseases to protect public health.
In these cases, it’s usually safer to use professional disposal services that handle pets with contagious conditions properly. This helps prevent outbreaks and keeps your neighborhood safe.
Electronics like old phones
You should never bury old phones or other electronics. They contain toxic substances like mercury and lead that can leak into the soil and water. This creates environmental hazards that could lead to legal issues.
Throwing electronics in the trash also risks exposing your personal data. Even broken devices can still store information that someone could retrieve.
Instead, use recycling programs offered by many retailers or local centers. This keeps your data safe and prevents pollution.
Asbestos-containing materials
You should never bury asbestos-containing materials on your property. When disturbed, asbestos releases tiny fibers that can cause serious lung diseases.
These materials were common in older buildings for their heat resistance and durability. If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a good chance asbestos was used.
Disposing of asbestos requires a licensed professional. Handling or burying it yourself can lead to legal trouble and health risks you want to avoid.
Plastics and synthetic materials
You should never bury plastics or synthetic materials in your yard. These items don’t break down easily and can release harmful chemicals into the soil over time.
Plastic waste, treated fabrics, and synthetic products can pollute the environment and affect plant growth. Plus, some local laws specifically forbid burying these materials to protect soil health.
Instead, look for recycling options to dispose of plastics properly. Keeping these out of your yard helps avoid fines and protects your garden and neighborhood.