When it comes to your private property, you might think burying certain items is a simple way to get rid of waste or unwanted stuff. However, not everything can legally be buried on your land, especially if it poses risks to the environment or health.
Knowing which hazardous items you’re not allowed to bury helps you avoid legal trouble and keeps your land safe. It’s important to understand the rules so you can handle waste properly without causing contamination or fines.
Refrigerators with refrigerants
You can’t just bury old refrigerators in your yard. They contain refrigerants like Freon, which are harmful to the environment if released.
These chemicals damage the ozone layer and are regulated by federal law. Before getting rid of your fridge, the refrigerants must be safely removed by a certified professional.
Many landfills won’t accept refrigerators unless these hazardous parts are taken out first. If you plan to dispose of one, check local rules or ask a waste facility how they handle these appliances.
Mercury-containing switches
You might not realize it, but some old light switches and appliances contain mercury switches. Mercury is toxic, so burying these switches can harm the environment and your health.
Since 1991, mercury switches have been phased out because of their risks. You can’t just throw them in your yard or trash—they need to be properly recycled or disposed of at hazardous waste centers.
If you find mercury switches in your home, handle them carefully. Many local programs can help you get rid of them safely without breaking the law.
Circuit boards with toxic metals
When you deal with old circuit boards, you should know they often contain toxic metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium. These materials can harm the environment if buried on your land.
Burying circuit boards can cause these metals to leach into the soil and groundwater. This can damage plants, animals, and even your local water supply.
Instead of burying, you should recycle circuit boards at proper facilities. That way, the hazardous substances are safely handled and don’t cause pollution.
Expired medications
You might think burying expired meds in your yard is an easy way to get rid of them. But it’s actually illegal and can harm the soil and water around your home. Chemicals from the medications can leak and cause environmental damage.
Instead, you should use take-back programs or follow local guidelines for disposing of expired medications safely. Don’t just toss them in the trash or bury them thinking it’s harmless. Proper disposal helps keep your family and the environment safe.
Asbestos materials
You can’t just bury asbestos on your property. It’s a hazardous material that’s tightly regulated because disturbing it can release harmful fibers into the air.
Even if it seems safe to bury asbestos deep underground, it poses a long-term risk to anyone near the site. That risk can hang around for decades.
If you try to hide it in your yard, you could face fines or legal trouble. Always rely on professionals to handle and dispose of asbestos safely to keep you and others protected.
Liquid household cleaners
You might think dumping old liquid cleaners in your yard is no big deal, but it’s actually illegal. These products often contain chemicals that can harm soil and nearby water sources.
When you bury them, those chemicals can leach into the ground and cause contamination. Plus, they don’t just disappear—they stick around and pose risks for a long time.
Instead, take your leftover cleaners to a hazardous waste facility. That way, you keep your land safe and avoid breaking any laws.