Needles and Sharps Disposal

The Household Sharps Collection Program is a free, voluntary program for individuals in Polk County who need to dispose of their used needles or sharps. Some people use needles, syringes, and lancets at home to care for their health. These needles, syringes, and lancets are called “sharps.” Used sharps must be disposed of properly and should never be thrown away with household garbage or placed in dumpsters.

This program is for private individuals only. Healthcare professionals and businesses are regulated by other agencies and are not eligible to participate.

How can I participate in this program?

1. Visit any collection site listed below.
2. Request a sharps container from the receptionist.
3. Take the container home and place it out of reach of children.
4. Place used syringes and/or lancets into the sharps container immediately after use.
5. The containers are puncture-resistant only. They are not puncture-proof.
6. When the container is three-quarters full, place the included top on the container to permanently close it.
7. Only fill to the indicated line on the container. Do not overfill or cram needles into the sharps container.
8. Return the sharps container to one of the collection sites listed below for proper disposal.
9. Ensure the cap is securely snapped in place.
10. Obtain a new sharps container from the employee.
11. A limit on sharps containers issued per household may apply.

Where are the collection sites?

Auburndale Clinic

1805 Hobbs Road
Auburndale, FL
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
863-519-7910

Lakeland Clinic

3241 Lakeland Hills Blvd.
Lakeland, FL
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
863-519-7910

Environmental Health

2090 E. Clower St.
Bartow, FL
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
863-519-8330

Haines City Clinic

1700 Baker Ave. E
Haines City, FL
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
863-519-7910

Bartow Fire Department

110 E. Church St.,
Bartow, FL
Daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
863-534-5044