Waste Amnesty Days begin Friday

WEST BAY - Bay County’s annual Waste Amnesty Days and Recycling Round-up starts Friday.

Residents may drop off yard debris, household garbage and hazardous waste at no charge and are encouraged to bring recyclable materials as well Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Steelfield Landfill, 11411 Landfill Road in West Bay, off State 79.

“This is something we do as a service to the community, giving people an opportunity to clean up their properties and also dispose of household hazardous waste properly without concern about it damaging the local environment,” said Bay County Assistant Manager Dan Shaw.

This event is open to Bay County residents only. Proof of residency is required (e.g., driver’s license, power bill, voter registration card).

Regulations prohibit disposing appliances, household hazardous waste, small engine containing devices and tires in landfills. The landfill accepts these items but must process them separately from other waste. If possible, pack these materials in the load so they can be dropped off at the designated area.

Bay County will not accept gas cylinders, explosive materials, ammunition or flares. However, residential-sized propane tanks are accepted. The normal tipping fees will still apply to commercial customers.

Fish ponds stocked by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission will be open to fishing for customers who drop off recyclables from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Customers must supply their own fishing equipment and bait, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, contact Bay County Solid Waste Management at 236-2212.