Water Quality District - Hazardous Waste
What is it?
Charcoal is a type of fuel used for grilling food. The small black briquettes of charcoal can slowly burn for hours.
What Makes it Hazardous?
Charcoal itself is not hazardous. However, some charcoal sold today is treated or soaked with a starter or lighter fluid. The lighter fluid is hazardous and needs to be managed properly.
- Use it up, or give it to someone who can!
Charcoal Not Treated With Lighter Fluid:
- Is safe to put in your trash when it is completely cooled off after use.
Charcoal Treated With Lighter Fluid:
- Contains hazardous materials, and should not be placed in the trash until it is burned (this releases the chemicals into the air).
- Use it up! Ashes may be placed in trash after they have cooled COMPLETELY.
The Residential Disposal Guide is provided by the Missoula Valley Water Quality District as a public service and is not an endorsement of specific businesses, services or products. Any omissions or inaccuracies are unintentional. Please contact us with corrections or additions. Call businesses or agencies to confirm hours, locations and charges for services, if any. For information on disposal of items not listed, email or call the Water Quality District at 406-258-4890, M - F, 8 am to 5 pm.
Much of the information provided is from the Washington County, MN, Dept. of Public Health and Environment website.
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