Locations across the City of Ottawa where used needles, syringes, crack pipes (glass stems) and other sharps can be returned and disposed of. Please note sharps waste from private medical practices (physicians’ offices/clinics, hospitals) will not be accepted.
Accuracy: For health and safety reasons, sharps cannot be put in the garbage or recycling, or flushed down the toilet (By-law 2009-396) Residents should place their sharps in a proper biohazard/sharps container, or a non-breakable puncture proof container with a lid, and return to one of the Needle Drop Boxes or Take it Back Pharmacy locations listed below. Needle Drop Boxes cannot accept sharps containers larger than a two litre pop bottle (measurements 15" by 4"). Larger amounts of needles can be dropped off at Ottawa Public Health Offices located at 100 Constellation Crescent or 179 Clarence Street from Monday-Friday from 8:30am - 4:30pm.
Some Take it Back! pharmacies may have provisions regarding sharps being returned to their store. Please call ahead to find out.
Update Frequency: as needed
Contact: Environment and Health Protection Branch, Ottawa Public Health