Needles, Sharps & Syringes

Used needles, syringes, and lancets—commonly referred to as sharps—must be handled with care. Improper disposal can cause injury to waste workers and the public and may lead to the spread of disease.

Safe Disposal in Carver County

Carver County residents can dispose of used sharps at the Environmental Center, following these safety guidelines:

Step 1: Use a Red Sharps Container

• All sharps must be stored in a red, FDA-approved sharps container with a secure, screw-on lid.

• Free 1-quart sharps containers are available at the Environmental Center upon request.

• Do not use plastic bottles, coffee cans, or other household containers.

• Do not include unused medication in your container (e.g., EpiPens, prefilled injectors).

Step 2: Fill and Seal Properly

• Place sharps into the container point-first.

• Fill only up to ¾ full to avoid spills.

• Keep the lid closed and tightly sealed at all times.

Step 3: Drop Off at the Environmental Center

• Bring proof of Carver County residency (such as a driver’s license).

• Inform staff upon arrival that you are dropping off sharps.

• You will be directed to the sharps disposal area.

• You are responsible for placing your sealed container into the designated bin.

Additional Options

• Some clinics and hospitals may offer sharps take-back programs. Contact them directly to confirm participation.

• Needle destruction devices are also available for home use. These tools bend, melt, or shear needles and may reduce risk before disposal. Ask your pharmacist or health care provider for recommendations.

Questions?

Visit our Environmental Services page or contact us for more information.

You can also learn more from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency on how to dispose of unwanted medications and sharps safely.