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The City does not collect medical trash except for syringes used in a residence.

Bring properly packaged and labeled used syringes and lancets (also known as "sharps") to any hospital or nursing home in New York State. NY hospitals and nursing homes are required by law to act as collection centers.

In addition, many local pharmacies and healthcare providers participate in the voluntary sharps collection program.

If you aren't using a sharps disposal program:

  • Place the sharps in a leak-proof, puncture-resistant container.
  • When the container is full, seal the lid securely, tape it closed, and label the container “Home Sharps - not for recycling."
  • Place the container with trash for regular trash collection.

Don't recycle syringes or lancets. Never place sharps containers in a recycling bin.

To dispose of other medical waste, you must hire a licensed hauler.

Learn more about used syringe and lancet disposal.

Pharmacies and other service providers who provide sharps may also participate through the Extended Syringe Access Program. 

View a map of pharmaceutical and sharps drop-off locations.

You can report improper syringe or sharp disposal.

Call 311 for assistance.

You can file a complaint against a hospital or nursing home that does not accept syringes or lancets for safe disposal.

  • Agency: New York State Department of Health
  • Division: Growing Up Healthy Hotline
  • Phone Number: (800) 522-5006
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

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