How do I dispose of syringes or other sharp items (i.e. – sharps)?
Sharp items or sharps are any discarded article that may compromise intact skin by causing punctures or cuts, including but not limited to, needles, syringes, Pasteur pipettes, lancets, broken glass, razor blades and scalpel blades. Sharps shall be disposed of in accordance with South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control's (SCDHEC) recommended procedures for syringe and sharp disposal.


All sharps shall be placed in an empty bleach, detergent, or other hard plastic or metal bottle or container and labeled with either a premade label that can be obtained for free from SCDHEC or the City of Charleston Environmental Services, or a homemade label with at least three-eighths-inch lettering stating: "WARNING: NEEDLES!" The bottle should then be placed in the garbage container at the top so it is clearly visible to collection crews.

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1. How do I obtain a residential garbage container?
2. What is the difference between garbage and trash?
3. What cannot be put in the garbage or trash?
4. What is the holiday garbage and trash pick-up schedule?
5. Where should I place my garbage container on my scheduled day of pick-up?
6. How should I fill my garbage container?
7. How should I prepare my yard waste for collection?
8. Does the City pick-up bulk items for City residents?
9. My garbage container was vandalized or stolen. What do I need to do?
10. What is household hazardous waste?
11. Where can I safely dispose of household hazardous waste such as electronics, batteries and paint?
12. How do I dispose of syringes or other sharp items (i.e. – sharps)?
13. What should I do with old electronics such as computers, TVs and microwaves?
14. Where can I dispose of used motor oil?
15. How can I dispose of junk, old appliances or scrap metal?
16. A professional landscaper has worked on my yard. Who is responsible for the yard waste?
17. Does the City remove contractor or builder refuse due to construction?
18. Where can I obtain information on the City of Charleston’s Garbage, Trash, and Refuse regulations?
19. Does the City of Charleston provide recycling services?
20. How can I get a blue curbside recycling container?
21. What can be recycled in Charleston County?