Painted Wood Illegal in Garbage & Drains Special Instructions When treated wood has reached the end of its service life it needs to be properly disposed of; the chemicals in it can leach out of the wood and contaminate surface water and groundwater. This can pose a potential risk to human health and the environment. Construction Materials Waste generated during a location’s construction, renovations, or demolition cannot be placed in your containers. Choose from a list of private haulers licensed to operate in the City of Torrance. Is It Treated Wood? If your painted wood has been treated to prevent damage from rot and insects, it is hazardous waste. Dispose of it as treated wood. Heat-treated or kiln-dried wood, usually marked with an “HT,” is not hazardous. Check for Lead Paint If the wood you’re dealing with comes from a project that pre-dates 1978 it may contain lead paint, which is hazardous. If any fine particles of lead-based paint are inhaled, they can cause a wide range of health problems. Use this PDF guide from the EPA to learn more about reducing hazards when working with lead. Small Amounts of Wood OK in Garbage Small amounts of painted wood can go in your garbage. Never Burn Painted Wood Wood that has been painted, stained or varnished releases toxic chemicals when it’s burned. Never burn wood coated in any of these materials. Ways to Reduce Choose Nontoxic Finishes for Your Wood Projects Avoid exposing yourself and your family to VOCs and other toxins by choosing natural, non-toxic finishes for wood projects. Learn more at My Chemical-Free House. Ways to Reuse Repurpose for New Project Certain types of wood products can be reused in a variety of different ways. Find out how to repurpose your wood product. Did You Know? Transforming Discarded Wood into Beautiful Furniture