Cleanout chemical collections

The Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) provides a free service across the drinking water catchments to safely dispose of a range of common household chemicals, as well as historic chemicals which are no longer permitted for use.  These chemicals can impact on water quality and harm the environment if not disposed of correctly.

The CleanOut program is available to rural and urban households in and adjacent to the drinking water catchments. It is not open to businesses or commercial generators of chemicals.

The CleanOut program operates at various locations and at specified dates throughout the year. Household quantities, up to a maximum of 20 litres or 20 kilograms, of a range of chemicals are generally accepted.

Household chemicals collected include:

  • pesticides, herbicides and poisons (fungicides, baits/poisons, wood preservatives)
  • paint and paint-related products (eg thinners, strippers, varnishes etc)
  • solvents and household cleaners
  • pool chemicals
  • acids and alkilis
  • motor oils, fuels and fluids
  • fire extinguishers
  • hobby chemicals (eg photography chemicals)
  • batteries
  • gas bottles
  • fluorescent tubes.

The program is offered by the SCA in partnership with the Department of Environment and Climate Change and local councils.  It is coordinated with other collection programs in NSW.

Follow the links below to read more about the 2008 results of the Cleanout chemical collections in your area:

For more information about the SCA's collection program call the CleanOut hotline on 131 555 or visit www.cleanout.com.au.

You can find details about other disposal and recycling options in your local area by visiting the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at www.environment.nsw.gov.au or Planet Ark Recycling at www.recyclingnearyou.com.au.