Fluorescent & Mercury Lamps
Materials
Fluorescent bulbs and tubes, Light Bulbs
Instructions
Special Items
Light Bulb Disposal Guidelines
Most light bulbs can be safely placed in the trash bin, with the exception of compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), fluorescent tubes, and ballasts, which require special handling due to their mercury content. Though the amount of mercury is small—about the size of a ballpoint pen tip—these items must be disposed of properly to prevent environmental harm.
Some retailers offer Take Back programs for intact fluorescent bulbs and tubes. Call ahead to confirm if your local store participates.
Nassau County residents may also bring a limited number of household-use fluorescent bulbs to the Callahan Convenience Recycling Center at 46026 Landfill Road, Callahan, FL 32011. This service is free of charge for Nassau County residents only. Commercial waste, rental property clean-outs, and foreclosure materials are not accepted. For safety, tape fluorescent tubes (less than 4 at a time) together and place them gently in the designated bin to prevent breakage.
Fluorescent bulbs, tubes, and ballasts are also accepted at Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events. To receive notifications about upcoming events, sign up for the Keep Nassau Beautiful newsletter at www.keepnassaubeautiful.org.