Allen County Offers Free Household Hazardous Waste Disposal This Weekend

'Tox Saturday' event allows residents to avoid standard drop-off fees

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:53am

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An abstract, impressionistic image of blurred household cleaning products and hazardous materials in soft, warm colors, conveying the concept of proper waste disposal.A free community event aims to make it easier for Allen County residents to safely dispose of household hazardous waste, promoting environmental protection.Fort Wayne Today

The City of Fort Wayne Solid Waste Department and the Allen County Department of Environmental Management are partnering to host a 'Tox Saturday' event this weekend, allowing Allen County residents to dispose of household hazardous waste for free. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday at the Allen County Household Hazardous Waste Facility, where residents can drop off items like oil-based paints, old cleaners, gasoline, and pesticides without paying the usual $5-20 fee.

Why it matters

Proper disposal of household hazardous waste is important for protecting the environment and public health, but the associated fees can be a barrier for some residents. This free event aims to make it easier for Allen County households to safely get rid of these potentially dangerous materials.

The details

The 'Tox Saturday' event is a partnership between the City of Fort Wayne Solid Waste Department and the Allen County Department of Environmental Management. Qualifying items that can be dropped off for free include oil-based paints and stains, old household cleaners, gasoline, automotive fluids, fertilizer, and pesticides and herbicides. The Allen County Household Hazardous Waste Facility is normally open on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., but charges regular rates on those days.

  • The 'Tox Saturday' event will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • The Allen County Household Hazardous Waste Facility is normally open on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The players

City of Fort Wayne Solid Waste Department

The municipal department responsible for waste management and disposal services in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Allen County Department of Environmental Management

The county agency that oversees environmental protection and sustainability initiatives in Allen County, Indiana.

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What’s next

Residents interested in taking advantage of the free 'Tox Saturday' event can find more information and directions to the Allen County Household Hazardous Waste Facility on the City of Fort Wayne's website.

The takeaway

This free hazardous waste disposal event provides an important service to Allen County residents, making it easier and more affordable for households to properly get rid of potentially dangerous materials. It's a valuable initiative that promotes environmental protection and public health in the local community.