Departments > Code Compliance > Solid Waste Services
Disposal of Medicine and Medical Waste
Storing unwanted and expired medications at home presents a risk for drug abuse or overdose for consumers as well as children and pets. On the other hand, improper drug disposal can contaminate soil and water, if people trash or flush pharmaceuticals down the sink or drain.
The following are the best ways to dispose of medications:
Collection Events
The city holds take-back events in the spring and fall. Visit the Take Back Meds page for more information, and watch your utility bill for the announcement of collection dates.
Drug Take-Back Kiosks
There are currently three Drug Take Back Kiosks in Fort Worth that are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
- UNT Health Science Center Drug Take Back Box, 3600 Mattison Ave.
- Walgreens, 6205 Westcreek Drive
- Walgreens, 4520 Western Center Blvd.
Drug Take-Back Envelopes
For small quantities of medications, the city is piloting a take-back program through postal mail. Simply call 817-392-1234 or email 1234@fortworthtexas.gov to request a postage-paid envelope (limited to one envelope per household while supplies last).
Why not flush?
Flushing of medicines down the toilet or drain can potentially contaminate our water sources.
Police station collection boxes
All medicine collection boxes located at police stations have been removed. However, the City of Fort Worth and other area stakeholders are working to increase permanent drug collection opportunities. For more information call 817-392-1234.
Medical Waste
Sharps (needles, syringes, lancets)
Before throwing away sharps in a trash receptacle, place them in a sharps disposal container or hard plastic/metal with a tightly-secured lid (detergent bottles with screw-on lids or a coffee can). When possible, break off syringe needles to prevent reuse.
General Medical Waste
Place IV bags, plastic tubing and similar medical equipment in plastic garbage bags and throw them away in trash receptacle. These items are not recyclable, whether they have been used or not.
Customer Service
Report an issue by phone:
817-392-1234
The call center is open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.
Assistant Director:
Robert Smouse
Download
Get collection reminders and look up how to dispose of waste on your smartphone with the new City of Fort Worth Garbage & Recycling app.
City of Fort Worth curbside garbage and recycling services are provided by Waste Management and Knight Waste Services.
