Cook County residents are encouraged to safely clean out hazardous materials during the free Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Event on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Cook County Recycling Center, 630 5th Ave. W., Grand Marais. Accepted items include paints, solvents, pesticides, automotive fluids, heavy-duty cleaners, fluorescent bulbs, and all battery types, including lithium and rechargeable batteries. Residents are encouraged to transport items in original labeled containers and tape battery terminals to help prevent fires during handling and transport. Residents who are unsure if a specific item is hazardous can consult the Disposal Guide at www.ResourceRenew.com.  Electronic waste will not be accepted at this event.

 Acceptable wastes include (but not limited to): 

• Paints & stains
• Acids & bases 
• Aerosols
• Automotive fluids
• Fluorescent lights
• Thinners & solvents
• Cleaners and degreasers
• Home & garden pesticides
• All single-use and rechargeable household batteries
• Adhesives
• PCB ballasts

Types of wastes NOT accepted: 

• Electronic Waste
• Empty containers
• Compressed gas
• Drop-In business
• Tires
• Radioactive materials
• Explosives
  

Qualifying businesses, non-profits, and organizations categorized as Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) may also participate with advance registration through Resource Renew. Businesses must submit an inventory of waste materials in advance, obtain pre-approval, and pay applicable disposal fees. To bring business waste to the Cook County collection site, you must contact Resource Renew at 218-726-1602 at least one week before the event to confirm eligibility, complete your registration, and receive your scheduled drop-off instructions.