Recycling & Waste

Bulbs - Fluorescent

Legal Considerations

It is illegal to place fluorescent light bulbs in the trash because they contain mercury.

Recycle

Bring fluorescent light bulbs (all shapes, including compact fluorescent) to the household hazardous waste collection sites for free.

• Remove bulb from fixture.
• Place bulb in original packaging or between cushioning fabric to prevent breaking.
• Do not tape bulbs together.

​Batteries Plus Bulbs, Ikea and some Home Depot locations collect fluorescent light bulbs for free. Your local hardware store may also collect fluorescent light bulbs.

You can bring fluorescent light bulbs to the recycle company listed below. Call to verify items accepted, hours and fees.

If a fluorescent light bulb breaks, refer to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's fact sheet. Properly bagged broken pieces can be brought to the household hazardous waste collection sites for free.

Recycle Companies