City announces new program for safe disposal of nicotine vape devices

Nicotine vape devices will be accepted for safe disposal at the Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center's Hazardous Material Collection Facility starting on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

Vape devices contain toxic nicotine and lithium-ion batteries. Improper disposal of vapes in the regular trash or recycling can lead to fires and exposure to hazardous materials.

This program, which creates safe ways to dispose of nicotine vape devices, is available to residents in Johnson County and within the city limits of Kalona and Riverside. Materials from outside of this service area are not accepted.

How to dispose of nicotine vapes correctly

Service area residents can safely dispose of nicotine vape devices at no cost at the Hazardous Material Collection Facility during weekly residential drop-off hours:

• 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays
• 7 a.m. to noon on Saturdays

All types of nicotine vapes and e-cigarettes are accepted. THC vapes are not accepted. Items should not be disassembled. If leaking, please place in a small sealed plastic baggie.

Nicotine vape devices should not be placed in the regular trash or recycling. Vapes are not accepted via the battery drop-off locations.

Disposal options for businesses and schools

Businesses, schools, or non-profit organizations are required to register and make an appointment before items can be accepted at the facility. Registration can be completed, and appointments can be made by calling 319-887-6112 or emailing [email protected]. Quantity limits and fees apply.

Other safe disposal options are available through hazardous material disposal services, such as Tradebe Environmental Services, Veolia, or Clean Harbors.

For more information, visit the Hazardous Material web page or contact the Recycling Coordinator at [email protected].