Frequently asked questions

and answers!

Q: What is Household Hazardous Waste?
A: Household Hazardous Waste is any common household product (such as yard or automotive products, paint cans, or electronics) that have dangerous chemicals or other contents that can be harmful if they are stored or disposed of incorrectly. Search our Accepted Items for more examples and be sure to book an appointment.

Q: How can I recycle household hazardous waste?
A: Only special facilities with trained staff like the Rooney Road Recycling Center have the capabilities to sort and distribute materials to locations that disassemble, treat, and recycle household hazardous waste. You can help by gathering all unused items categorized as household hazardous waste and book an appointment with us to drop it off.

Q: Is it safe to bring household hazardous waste to the center?
A: Yes. Most household hazardous waste materials are safe to use around the house and are safe to transport—and we handle and store them safely. HHW becomes dangerous when leftover or excess materials are not used as directed, or are not disposed of correctly.

Q: How much does it cost to recycle at the Center?
A: With the help of subsidies provided by your local jurisdiction, most Jefferson County residents pay a $30 co-pay per visit, up to 75 pounds. Learn more about costs and free items on our How It Works page.

Q: How long is the wait time to drop off my household hazardous waste at the center?
A: The normal wait is less than 10 minutes. When it is your turn, it usually takes just a few minutes to unload your materials, but it depends on how much you have. Please be sure to come during your scheduled appointment time.

Q: Where is the center located?
A: 151 South Rooney Road, Golden, CO 80401 (click to view in Google Maps)

Q: What happens when I arrive at the center to drop off my household hazardous waste?
A: Arrive at your scheduled appointment time, follow the signs to the center, and pull into the drop off area. Trained staff will unload the household hazardous waste from your vehicle, take your payment and give you a receipt.

Q: How do I pay?
A: We accept cash, checks and major credit cards. Visit our Pricing page for specific costs.

Q: Will someone help me unload materials from my car?
A: Trained staff will assist with the unloading of your vehicle.

Q: Can I recycle empty propane bottles and empty HHW containers?
A: Yes, the same fees apply to recycling the containers.

Q: Can I drop off explosives or old ammunition?
A: No, contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office for proper disposal information.

Q: Do you accept radioactive wastes (e.g. tritium, radium, U235)?
A: No. Please call 303-316-6262 with this request.

Q: When are you open?
A: We are open by appointment only Wednesdays & Saturdays 8am – 2pm, with a lunch closure daily from noon-12:30. Be sure to book an appointment before you visit!

Q: What happens to the household hazardous waste after I drop it off?
A: Our trained staff first groups and boxes similar items together and safely stores it until it can be transported to another facility. There, waste is disassembled, treated, or recycled.

Q: What if I can’t drive?
A: If you are physically unable to drive, call us at 303-316-6262 to schedule a curbside pickup and we’ll come to you! There is a minimum $40 co-pay for curbside pickup.

Q: What if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?
A: When you book an appointment you will receive a confirmation email. This email contains a link if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. Please try to reschedule or cancel at least 24 hours before your original appointment time.