The Law: Medical waste generated at home (like bandages or IV bags) is not considered “Regulated Medical Waste” in Vermont and can go in the trash if handled correctly. However, Sharps (needles and syringes) require strict handling to protect sanitation workers from accidental needle sticks. It is illegal in Vermont to dispose of sharps in a way that endangers others.

💉 Safe Disposal of Sharps (Needles/Syringes)

Do not place loose needles in the trash or recycling. Use the following “Safe Container” method for all home-generated sharps:

  1. Container: Use a rigid, heavy-duty plastic container with a screw-top lid (e.g., an empty laundry detergent or bleach bottle). Do not use soda bottles or glass.

  2. Label: Clearly write “SHARPS – DO NOT RECYCLE” on the bottle.

  3. Seal: When the container is 3/4 full, screw the cap on tightly and seal it with heavy-duty tape (like duct tape).

  4. Dispose: Once sealed and labeled, you may place the container in your regular household trash.

💊 Unused Medication & Prescription Drugs

Never flush medications! They bypass wastewater treatment and enter our local water table. The EPA’s Household Medicine Disposal Guidelines recommend professional take-back programs as the most environmentally protective choice.

A. Permanent Year-Round Drop Boxes (Kiosks) Rutland County has several secure “Kiosks” where you can drop off unwanted or expired medications (pills and patches) at no charge during their regular business hours:

  • Rutland Police Department: 108 Wales St, Rutland

  • Rutland County Sheriff’s Office: 88 Grove St, Rutland

  • Castleton Police Department: 273 VT Route 30 N, Castleton

  • Fair Haven Police Department: 3 North Park Place, Fair Haven

  • Brandon Police Department: 301 Forest Dale Rd, Brandon

  • Rutland Pharmacy: 75 Allen St, Rutland

  • CVS Pharmacy: 31 North Main St, Rutland

  • Walgreens Pharmacy: 71 North Main St & 10 Court St, Rutland

B. DEA National Prescription Drug Take-Back Days The DEA sponsors nationwide events twice a year, typically on the last Saturday of April and October. These events provide a safe, anonymous way to dispose of prescription drugs.

  • Find an Event: Visit DEA.gov/TakeBackDay as the seasons approach to find participating law enforcement sites near you.

C. Vermont Health Department Mail-Back Program If you cannot get to a drop box, the Vermont Department of Health offers free, pre-paid mail-back envelopes for medications.

🏢 Professional/Business Medical Waste

If you are a business (medical practice, dental office, veterinary clinic) or a home-healthcare professional, you are considered a Regulated Medical Waste (RMW) Generator. You are legally required to use a certified hauler; this waste is never accepted at SWAC transfer stations.

How to Find a Certified Hauler: The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) maintains a searchable list of all permitted solid waste transporters.

  1. View the List: Visit the VT DEC Permitted Transporter List.

  2. Filter: Look for haulers with the letter “M” (for Medical Waste) in the “Waste Type” column.

  3. Common Providers: The following companies frequently service the Rutland County area:

    • B&D Associates: (603) 224-1157

    • Stericycle: (866) 783-6275

    • MedPro Disposal: (888) 641-6131

Business Tip: You must keep “Certificates of Destruction” provided by your hauler for at least three years to remain in compliance with state record-keeping regulations.