Top 5 Most Common Items You’re Illegally Throwing Away in Texas

In Texas, there are quite a few incredibly common items that you might be illegally tossing in the trash. If you're caught illegally discarding items, you can face hefty fines of up to thousands of dollars and even jail time. 

Here are the top 5 items in Texas that are illegal to throw in the trash.

USED MOTOR OIL/OIL FILTERS

Texas law prohibits dumping used oil on land, or into storm drains or waterways. Some communities have collection centers for used oil and properly drained oil filters. Also, some auto service centers may accept used oil in quantities of less than 5 gallons, and sometimes even used filters from the public. 

USED TIRES

Used tires could become a fire hazard, potentially releasing toxic gases into the air. For this reason, you must take extra steps to properly dispose of them. "You may be able to dispose of your own used or scrap tires during a bulky trash collection event sponsored by your local government. A landfill may accept your tires directly, but will usually charge a fee."

PAINT

Texas completely bans "paint and any other free liquids from all solid waste landfills in Texas." The chemicals in paint are hazardous and can contaminate the soil and water. You can, however, dry out latex paint and then toss it.

DECEASED ANIMALS

If you do not have a backyard where you cannot bury your animal or cannot afford to cremate your pet, how do you dispose of its body? Your bet is to call local animal control. They will advise you to double bag the body and leave it out on the curb, and they will arrange a time/ day for pickup.

BATTERIES

It's against Texas law to put lead-acid car or truck batteries in your trash. Texas law requires businesses that sell lead-acid batteries to accept your old battery when you purchase a new one. Ask your local auto parts store or auto service shop if they will accept extra batteries for recycling.

CHECK OUT MORE ITEMS THAT MUST BE DISPOSED OF OR RECYCLED PROPERLY HERE.