Hazardous Waste Disposal in Wisconsin
Professional Hazardous Waste Management Services Throughout Wisconsin
Businesses and institutions across Wisconsin generate hazardous waste that requires proper disposal to meet EPA and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) regulations. From dairy processing to advanced manufacturing, proper hazardous waste management is essential for compliance, safety, and environmental protection. Hazardous Waste Disposal provides expert waste management services throughout America's Dairyland.
Call (800) 582-4833 for Wisconsin hazardous waste disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
Hazardous Waste Services Across Wisconsin
We provide comprehensive hazardous waste disposal services to businesses, industries, institutions, and organizations throughout Wisconsin. Our services cover all major metropolitan areas, smaller cities, and rural communities across the state, ensuring Wisconsin businesses have access to reliable, compliant waste management solutions.
Major Service Areas in Wisconsin
Milwaukee Metro Area: Comprehensive hazardous waste services for manufacturers, breweries, food processors, healthcare facilities, universities, and commercial businesses in Wisconsin's largest city and surrounding areas including Waukesha, West Allis, Wauwatosa, and Brookfield. Milwaukee has extensive manufacturing and industrial operations.
Madison Area: Waste disposal services for state government facilities, University of Wisconsin-Madison and its extensive research programs, Epic Systems and other technology companies, biotech firms, healthcare facilities, and commercial businesses in the state capital and Dane County region.
Green Bay-Fox Cities Region: Hazardous waste management for paper mills, food processing facilities including major cheese producers, packaging manufacturers, healthcare facilities, and commercial businesses in Northeast Wisconsin. This region has significant paper industry presence and food processing operations.
Racine-Kenosha Area: Services for manufacturers, SC Johnson operations, healthcare facilities, and businesses in Southeast Wisconsin with proximity to Chicago metropolitan area influences.
Oshkosh-Fond du Lac-Appleton Triangle: Waste management for paper industry, manufacturing, EAA AirVenture operations, and diverse businesses in the Fox River Valley.
Wausau-Stevens Point Area: Hazardous waste disposal for paper mills, insurance company operations, manufacturers, healthcare facilities, and businesses in Central Wisconsin.
La Crosse Area: Services for healthcare facilities including major medical centers, manufacturers, universities, and commercial businesses in Western Wisconsin along the Mississippi River.
Eau Claire-Chippewa Falls Region: Waste management for manufacturers, healthcare facilities, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and businesses in Northwest Wisconsin.
Sheboygan Area: Services for manufacturers including Kohler Company operations, food processors, and businesses along Lake Michigan.
Janesville-Beloit Area: Hazardous waste disposal for manufacturing facilities, healthcare providers, and commercial operations in South Central Wisconsin.
Other Service Areas: We provide hazardous waste disposal services throughout all 72 counties in Wisconsin, including Superior, Marinette, Wisconsin Rapids, Marshfield, Manitowoc, Beaver Dam, and all communities statewide from Lake Superior to the Illinois border.
Wisconsin Industries We Serve
Wisconsin's economy is built on manufacturing excellence, agricultural processing, paper production, brewing, and healthcare. We provide specialized hazardous waste management services to all major industries operating throughout the state.
Manufacturing Industry
Wisconsin is one of America's premier manufacturing states with diverse industrial operations across sectors.
Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing: Wisconsin leads the nation in several manufacturing categories. Companies throughout the state produce industrial machinery, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, and specialized tools, generating:
Metal finishing waste (plating solutions, phosphating chemicals, chromate treatments)
Spent cutting fluids and metalworking coolants
Parts washing solvents and degreasers
Paint and coating waste
Hydraulic fluids and lubricants
Contaminated materials and shop rags
Equipment maintenance waste
Harley-Davidson (Milwaukee area) manufactures motorcycles creating paint booth waste, metal finishing materials, assembly line chemicals, and maintenance solvents.
Kohler Company (Sheboygan) produces plumbing fixtures, engines, and generators, generating metal finishing waste, foundry materials, paint waste, and manufacturing chemicals.
John Deere operations in Wisconsin produce agricultural and construction equipment with similar metalworking and finishing waste streams.
Oshkosh Corporation manufactures specialty vehicles and equipment generating fabrication waste, coating materials, and assembly chemicals.
Generac Power Systems produces generators creating manufacturing process waste and finishing materials.
Briggs & Stratton engine manufacturing (Milwaukee area) generates metal processing waste, oils and coolants, and production chemicals.
Thousands of smaller manufacturers throughout Wisconsin create metal fabrication waste, machining fluids, finishing chemicals, and diverse manufacturing waste streams requiring expert management.
Paper and Pulp Industry
Wisconsin has historically been a major paper producing state with continuing operations, particularly in the Fox River Valley and Central Wisconsin.
Georgia-Pacific, Green Bay Packaging, and other paper manufacturers operate mills generating:
Pulping chemical waste
Bleaching agent residues
Wastewater treatment sludge
Process chemical waste
Boiler cleaning chemicals
Equipment maintenance waste
Laboratory testing chemicals
Contaminated materials
Paper converting operations that manufacture packaging, tissue products, and specialty papers create additional waste from coating processes, adhesive applications, and printing operations.
While the industry has contracted from historical peaks, remaining operations are significant waste generators requiring comprehensive management services.
Food Processing and Dairy Industry
Wisconsin's food processing sector is among the nation's largest, with particular strength in dairy products.
Dairy Processing: Wisconsin produces more cheese than any other state. Major processors include:
Sargento Foods (Plymouth)
Saputo Cheese (multiple locations)
Grande Cheese (Fond du Lac)
Dozens of other cheese manufacturers statewide
Dairy processing facilities generate:
Cleaning chemicals and sanitizers
Wastewater treatment chemicals
Refrigeration system waste (ammonia-bearing materials, refrigerants)
Boiler treatment chemicals
Equipment maintenance waste
Laboratory testing chemicals
Process chemicals
Meat Processing: Facilities throughout the state process pork, beef, and poultry, creating similar cleaning chemicals, refrigeration waste, and maintenance materials.
Frozen Foods and Vegetables: Processors generate cleaning chemicals, refrigeration waste, and equipment maintenance materials.
Brewing Industry: Wisconsin's strong brewing heritage continues with major operations:
Miller Coors (Milwaukee)
Numerous craft breweries statewide
Breweries generate caustic cleaning solutions, acid sanitizers, equipment maintenance waste, laboratory chemicals, and process materials.
Other Food Manufacturing: Facilities producing snack foods, baked goods, confections, and diverse food products create cleaning chemicals, equipment waste, and process materials.
Healthcare and Medical Services
Wisconsin's healthcare system serves the population with major medical centers and numerous community hospitals.
University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics (Madison) is one of the nation's leading academic medical centers, generating:
Pharmaceutical waste including expired medications
Chemotherapy waste requiring careful handling
Laboratory chemicals from clinical and research labs
Formaldehyde and pathology chemicals
Xylene and other staining reagents
Mercury-containing equipment (declining but still present)
X-ray chemistry (largely phased out for digital)
Chemical disinfectants and sterilants
Universal waste
Aurora Health Care operates facilities throughout Eastern Wisconsin generating similar healthcare waste streams.
Advocate Aurora Health, Froedtert Health, Gundersen Health System (La Crosse), Marshfield Clinic Health System, Aspirus Health, and numerous other hospital systems and healthcare facilities generate pharmaceutical waste, laboratory chemicals, and medical hazardous materials.
Healthcare waste requires compliance with both EPA hazardous waste regulations and DEA controlled substance requirements. We provide comprehensive pharmaceutical waste management including proper characterization, manifesting, transportation, and disposal with DEA Form 41 documentation for controlled substances.
Education and Research Institutions
Wisconsin's universities and colleges generate laboratory waste from teaching and research.
University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the nation's premier research universities with extensive science, engineering, medical, agricultural, and veterinary programs generating:
Laboratory chemicals (acids, bases, solvents, reagents)
Research waste from diverse scientific programs
Biological waste (managed under separate protocols)
Veterinary waste from animal science and veterinary medicine
Art department waste (paints, solvents, sculpture materials, photography chemicals)
Engineering laboratory waste
Agricultural research chemicals
Maintenance chemicals
Universal waste
University of Wisconsin System institutions including UW-Milwaukee, UW-Eau Claire, UW-La Crosse, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Stevens Point, UW-Whitewater, UW-Stout, UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, and other campuses generate teaching and research laboratory waste.
Marquette University (Milwaukee), Milwaukee School of Engineering, Beloit College, Lawrence University, and other private institutions generate laboratory teaching and research waste.
Wisconsin Technical College System schools with science and technical programs create laboratory and shop waste.
We provide lab pack services, chemical waste disposal, and comprehensive waste management for educational institutions with understanding of academic schedules and budget constraints.
Automotive Industry
Wisconsin's automotive sector includes parts manufacturing, assembly operations, and service facilities.
GM Assembly Plant (historically in Janesville, now other operations) and automotive suppliers throughout the state generate:
Metal finishing and plating waste
Paint booth materials and coating waste
Welding waste
Parts washing solvents
Assembly line chemicals
Equipment maintenance waste
Battery waste
Petroleum products
Auto body shops, repair facilities, and dealerships statewide create paint waste, solvents, used petroleum products, and maintenance materials.
Chemical Manufacturing
Wisconsin has chemical manufacturing operations producing specialty chemicals, industrial chemicals, and chemical products.
SC Johnson (Racine) manufactures consumer products and specialty chemicals, generating process waste, off-specification products, laboratory chemicals, and manufacturing residues.
BASF, Dow, and other chemical companies operate facilities in Wisconsin creating chemical manufacturing waste, reaction byproducts, contaminated materials, and process residues.
Smaller specialty chemical manufacturers produce niche products generating diverse chemical waste streams.
Electronics and Technology
Epic Systems (Verona/Madison area) is a major healthcare software company with extensive facilities generating electronic waste, battery systems, and facility maintenance materials.
Electronics manufacturers throughout Wisconsin produce circuit boards, components, and finished products creating:
Soldering waste and flux residues
Cleaning solvents
Plating solutions
Electronic assembly waste
Universal waste
Printing and Publishing
Wisconsin's printing industry, while smaller than historically, continues operating with commercial printers generating:
Printing inks
Fountain solutions
Plate processing chemicals
Cleaning solvents
Contaminated materials
Agriculture and Farming
Wisconsin's agricultural sector is significant, particularly dairy farming but also including crop production.
Agricultural Operations generate:
Pesticide and herbicide containers and residues
Veterinary pharmaceutical waste
Equipment maintenance waste (petroleum products, hydraulic fluids, antifreeze)
Fertilizer waste
Cleaning chemicals
Battery waste
Wisconsin has strict agricultural chemical regulations and we help farmers properly manage agricultural hazardous waste.
Utilities and Energy
Wisconsin Public Service, We Energies, Alliant Energy, Xcel Energy, and other utilities operating in Wisconsin generate:
Transformer oils (PCB and non-PCB)
Circuit breaker fluids
Battery systems
Mercury-containing equipment
Equipment maintenance waste
Coal ash from remaining coal plants (if not beneficially used)
Nuclear power at Point Beach Nuclear Plant creates low-level radioactive waste (managed under separate protocols) but necessitates comprehensive waste handling programs.
Transportation and Logistics
Trucking companies, warehouses, and logistics operations throughout Wisconsin generate:
Used petroleum products
Vehicle maintenance waste
Parts washing solvents
Antifreeze
Battery waste
Contaminated materials
Types of Hazardous Waste We Manage in Wisconsin
We handle the complete spectrum of hazardous waste materials generated by Wisconsin businesses, ensuring compliant disposal regardless of waste complexity.
Chemical Waste
Laboratory and industrial chemical waste including:
Acids: sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric, phosphoric, chromic
Bases: sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide
Solvents: acetone, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, toluene, xylene, MEK, hexane
Oxidizers and reactive chemicals
Heavy metal solutions (chromium, lead, cadmium, mercury, nickel, zinc)
Cyanide compounds
Expired or off-specification chemicals
Process chemicals and reaction byproducts
Laboratory reagents
Petroleum Products
Used motor oil, transmission fluid, gear oil
Hydraulic fluids from industrial and mobile equipment
Cutting fluids and metalworking coolants
Waste fuels (gasoline, diesel, heating oil)
Oil-water separator waste
Petroleum-contaminated materials (absorbents, rags, filters)
Grease and lubricants
Antifreeze
Universal Waste
Fluorescent bulbs and mercury-containing lamps
Batteries (lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, lithium-ion, alkaline)
Mercury-containing devices (thermostats, thermometers, switches, relays)
Electronic waste (computers, monitors, printers, equipment)
Ballasts containing PCBs
Industrial Process Waste
Paint booth waste and spray gun cleaning materials
Spent catalysts
Wastewater treatment sludge
Electroplating sludge and solutions
Metal finishing waste
Pulp mill waste (black liquor solids, treatment sludge)
Contaminated PPE
Tank cleaning residues
Spill cleanup materials
Pharmaceutical Waste
Expired medications
Contaminated pharmaceuticals
Controlled substances (requiring DEA compliance)
Chemotherapy waste
Laboratory testing waste
Samples and quality control materials
Healthcare Waste
Laboratory chemicals
Pathology chemicals (formaldehyde, xylene)
X-ray chemistry (fixer, developer)
Mercury waste
Dental amalgam
Disinfectants and sterilants
Food Processing Waste
Cleaning chemicals and sanitizers
Refrigeration system waste
Boiler treatment chemicals
Laboratory testing chemicals
Equipment maintenance waste
Specialty Waste Streams
Paper mill waste (pulping chemicals, bleaching residues)
Dairy processing cleaning chemicals
Brewery waste (cleaning and sanitizing solutions)
Manufacturing metal finishing waste
Agricultural pesticide containers and residues
Wisconsin Hazardous Waste Regulations
Wisconsin's hazardous waste program operates under federal RCRA regulations with state implementation by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Understanding and complying with these regulations is essential for Wisconsin businesses.
Generator Categories and Requirements
Wisconsin follows federal generator category definitions with state-specific implementation.
Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs): Facilities generating less than 100 kilograms (220 pounds) per month of hazardous waste and less than 1 kilogram per month of acute hazardous waste. Requirements include:
Identify all hazardous waste generated
Never accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms on-site
Ensure waste goes to appropriate disposal facilities
Basic record keeping (recommended though not extensively required)
While VSQGs have minimal federal requirements, they remain liable for improper disposal and environmental damage.
Small Quantity Generators (SQGs): Facilities generating between 100 and 1,000 kilograms per month of hazardous waste. Requirements include:
Obtain EPA Identification Number through WDNR
Manifest all hazardous waste shipments
Accumulate waste for maximum 180 days (or 270 days if transporting waste 200 miles or more to designated disposal facility)
Store waste in proper containers with accumulation start dates
Provide basic employee training on waste management
Develop contingency plans for emergencies
Maintain records for at least three years
Register with WDNR and comply with state notification requirements
Pay applicable state fees
Large Quantity Generators (LQGs): Facilities generating 1,000 kilograms or more per month of hazardous waste or more than 1 kilogram per month of acute hazardous waste. Requirements include:
Obtain EPA Identification Number
Prepare and submit biennial reports to EPA and WDNR
Maintain comprehensive records for minimum three years
Manifest all waste shipments
Accumulate waste for maximum 90 days in compliant storage areas
Develop and implement detailed contingency plans
Provide extensive personnel training with annual refreshers
Conduct weekly inspections of waste storage areas
Implement preparedness and prevention measures
Certify waste minimization programs on manifests
Pay Wisconsin hazardous waste fees
Major Wisconsin facilities including large manufacturers, paper mills, hospitals, universities, and chemical plants typically operate as LQGs.
Wisconsin-Specific Requirements
WDNR administers the hazardous waste program with some state-specific provisions:
Registration requirements with WDNR
Annual hazardous waste fees based on generation quantities
Notification of waste generation activities
Compliance with state inspection and enforcement protocols
Wisconsin-specific waste codes in some instances
State emergency response requirements
Wisconsin requires generators to use only EPA-authorized treatment, storage, and disposal facilities and maintain proper documentation.
Accumulation Time Extensions
Wisconsin allows the 270-day accumulation period for Small Quantity Generators who must transport waste 200 miles or more to a designated treatment, storage, or disposal facility. Many Wisconsin generators, particularly those in northern and western parts of the state, qualify for this extension due to distances to available disposal facilities.
WDNR may grant temporary extensions beyond standard accumulation periods for unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, facility emergencies, transportation disruptions, or other uncontrollable situations. Extension requests must be submitted in writing with appropriate justification.
Land Disposal Restrictions
Wisconsin enforces federal Land Disposal Restriction (LDR) requirements mandating treatment of hazardous waste before land disposal. Waste must meet specific treatment standards or be disposed of in approved facilities. Generators must provide proper LDR notifications and certifications with waste shipments and maintain records documenting compliance.
WDNR Enforcement and Penalties
WDNR conducts:
Regular compliance inspections of generator facilities
Investigation of complaints and reported violations
Issuance of notices of violation for non-compliance
Assessment of civil penalties for violations
Administrative orders requiring corrective action
Referral of serious violations for criminal prosecution
Wisconsin actively enforces hazardous waste regulations to protect public health and the state's exceptional water resources. Penalties for violations can be substantial.
Record Keeping Requirements
Wisconsin generators must maintain:
Manifests and shipping records for at least three years
Biennial reports (for LQGs)
Exception reports for any shipment discrepancies
Training records for current employees and for three years after employment ends
Inspection logs and maintenance records
Waste analysis and characterization data
Accumulation start date records
Emergency response and incident reports
All correspondence with WDNR
Records must be organized, accessible, and available during WDNR inspections or upon agency request.
Our Hazardous Waste Disposal Process
We've developed a comprehensive, efficient process for managing hazardous waste disposal from Wisconsin facilities. Our approach ensures regulatory compliance while minimizing disruption to your operations.
Step 1: Initial Contact and Assessment
Contact us at (800) 582-4833 or info@hazardouswastedisposal.com to discuss your hazardous waste disposal needs. During initial consultation, we gather information about:
Types of waste you generate
Approximate quantities and generation frequency
Current storage methods and containers
Your generator category and regulatory status
Any immediate concerns or compliance issues
Special requirements or timing needs
We provide a preliminary assessment and explain how we can assist with your waste management needs.
Step 2: Waste Characterization and Profiling
Proper waste characterization is essential for compliant disposal. We help you:
Identify waste streams through process knowledge
Review Safety Data Sheets and product information
Determine proper hazardous waste classifications
Arrange laboratory analysis if needed for unknown waste
Develop waste profiles for approval by disposal facilities
Ensure proper characterization under RCRA and Wisconsin regulations
Wisconsin businesses commonly need assistance characterizing paper mill waste, dairy processing materials, manufacturing metal finishing waste, agricultural chemicals, legacy waste, and complex mixtures.
Step 3: Regulatory Compliance Review
We verify that your waste management practices comply with applicable regulations:
Confirm proper EPA ID Number and WDNR registration
Review generator category classification
Assess accumulation time compliance
Evaluate container labeling and storage practices
Review employee training adequacy
Assess emergency preparedness and contingency planning
Verify fee payment status with WDNR
Identify any compliance gaps needing correction
For facilities approaching regulatory thresholds or experiencing changes in waste generation, we provide guidance on maintaining compliance and avoiding violations.
Step 4: Proposal and Scheduling
Based on waste characterization and your needs, we provide:
Detailed pricing quote with transparent breakdown
Appropriate container recommendations (5-gallon pails, 30-gallon drums, 55-gallon drums, or other sizes)
Service timing proposal
Any special requirements or considerations
Clear explanation of services included
Once you approve, we schedule service according to your preferred timing and operational needs.
Step 5: Container Provision (if needed)
For facilities requiring containers, we provide:
Proper DOT-specification containers meeting regulatory requirements
Appropriate sizes for your waste volumes
Clear labeling with hazard information
Accumulation date marking
Drum exchange programs for recurring service
Step 6: Waste Pickup and Transportation
When waste is ready for shipment:
We coordinate pickup scheduling around your operations
Provide trained drivers and compliant vehicles
Generate proper hazardous waste manifests with all required information
Load and transport waste safely and in compliance with DOT regulations
Provide you with appropriate manifest copies for your records
Track shipment to ensure delivery to designated facility
We work with transportation partners familiar with Wisconsin's geography, weather conditions, and logistics.
Step 7: Treatment and Disposal
Your waste is delivered to appropriate permitted treatment, storage, and disposal facilities. Depending on waste characteristics, disposal methods may include:
Incineration for organic waste and materials with fuel value
Fuel blending for certain flammable wastes
Chemical treatment and stabilization
Secure landfill disposal for waste meeting land disposal restrictions
Recycling or resource recovery where appropriate
Specialized treatment for unique waste streams
We work only with fully permitted, compliant facilities and select disposal options based on waste characteristics, environmental protection, regulatory requirements, and cost efficiency.
Step 8: Documentation and Certification
After disposal, we provide:
Signed manifest copies confirming delivery to designated facility
Certificates of disposal or destruction
Land Disposal Restriction notifications and certifications
Any analytical reports if testing was performed
Complete documentation for your compliance records
We maintain records of all transactions and can provide historical data upon request.
Why Wisconsin Businesses Choose Hazardous Waste Disposal
Experience: Operating since 1992, we bring over three decades of hazardous waste management expertise to Wisconsin businesses.
Wisconsin Industry Knowledge: We understand the state's major industries including manufacturing, paper production, dairy processing, brewing, healthcare, universities, and agriculture, along with their specific waste management needs.
Regulatory Expertise: We stay current with EPA and WDNR requirements and help you maintain compliance, avoid violations, and implement best practices. We understand Wisconsin's state-specific requirements including fee structures and registration.
Nationwide Network: Our vendor partnerships allow us to serve clients throughout Wisconsin and provide disposal options across the United States for cost-effective waste management.
Responsive Service: We provide prompt responses to inquiries, efficient service delivery, and solutions to waste management challenges. Wisconsin businesses value reliable, responsive service partners.
Transparent Pricing: Clear, honest pricing with no hidden fees allows you to budget confidently for waste management costs.
Safety Focus: We prioritize safety in all aspects of waste handling, transportation, and disposal operations.
Environmental Protection: We're committed to protecting Wisconsin's lakes, rivers, and natural environment through proper waste management practices. Wisconsin's environmental heritage is precious and we help protect it.
Best Practices for Wisconsin Hazardous Waste Management
Proper Waste Segregation
Never mix incompatible wastes. Keep acids separate from bases, oxidizers away from flammables, and reactive chemicals properly isolated. Proper segregation:
Prevents dangerous chemical reactions
Reduces disposal costs
Facilitates recycling opportunities
Simplifies regulatory compliance
Improves safety
Container Management
Store hazardous waste in appropriate containers:
Containers must be in good condition
Compatible with waste contents
Properly closed except when adding waste
Clearly labeled with waste identity and accumulation start date
Positioned on stable surfaces with secondary containment where appropriate
Protected from weather extremes
Located away from floor drains
Wisconsin's climate includes cold winters with freezing temperatures, hot humid summers, and significant precipitation. Ensure containers are protected from temperature extremes and that aqueous waste doesn't freeze.
Accurate Accumulation Date Tracking
Mark containers with accumulation start dates and track accumulation times carefully:
SQGs must ship within 180 days (or 270 days if qualifying for distance extension)
LQGs must ship within 90 days
Exceeding accumulation limits is a serious violation
Employee Training
Provide appropriate training to employees handling hazardous waste covering proper identification, handling procedures, labeling requirements, spill response, and emergency protocols. Document all training and conduct annual refreshers.
Emergency Preparedness
Develop and maintain emergency plans addressing spills, fires, personnel exposure, and natural disasters. Ensure emergency equipment availability and train employees on emergency procedures. Wisconsin facilities should consider winter weather impacts, flooding potential near rivers and lakes, and coordination with local emergency responders.
Regular Inspections
Conduct routine inspections of waste storage areas and document findings. Address deficiencies immediately.
Waste Minimization
Reduce hazardous waste generation through process improvements, material substitution, inventory management, equipment maintenance, and employee engagement. Waste minimization reduces costs and environmental impact.
Geographic and Industry-Specific Considerations in Wisconsin
Great Lakes Water Protection
Wisconsin borders Lake Michigan and Lake Superior - two of the Great Lakes containing one-fifth of the world's fresh surface water. Proper hazardous waste management prevents contamination of these irreplaceable resources. Facilities near the Great Lakes face enhanced environmental scrutiny and should implement robust spill prevention measures.
Inland Lakes and Rivers
Wisconsin has over 15,000 lakes and extensive river systems including the Mississippi River border. Protecting these water resources is critical for recreation, drinking water, and ecosystem health. We help Wisconsin businesses implement waste management practices protecting these precious waters.
Paper Industry Concentration
The Fox River Valley's concentration of paper mills creates unique waste management needs. We understand pulp and paper industry operations and provide appropriate services for this important Wisconsin sector.
Dairy Industry Requirements
Wisconsin's dairy industry leadership requires specialized understanding of food processing waste management, cleaning chemical regulations, and agricultural operations. We provide expertise in dairy processing waste management.
Cold Climate Considerations
Wisconsin's harsh winters affect waste management:
Containers and storage areas must protect against freezing
Winter weather can impact transportation schedules
Snow and ice management around storage areas
Heating requirements for temperature-sensitive materials
We plan services accounting for Wisconsin's climate challenges.
Rural and Agricultural Areas
Many Wisconsin facilities are in rural areas or small communities. We provide reliable service throughout the state regardless of location, understanding rural logistics and agricultural operations.
Common Wisconsin Hazardous Waste Questions
Q: How do I get an EPA ID Number in Wisconsin? A: Contact WDNR or use EPA's electronic system at epa.gov/hwgenerators. You'll need to provide information about your facility and waste generation. WDNR will process your registration. You'll also need to pay applicable Wisconsin hazardous waste fees.
Q: What are Wisconsin's hazardous waste fees? A: Wisconsin charges annual fees for hazardous waste generators based on quantities generated. Fee schedules are available from WDNR. Failure to pay fees can result in penalties. We can help you understand fee requirements.
Q: Does Wisconsin allow the 270-day accumulation extension for SQGs? A: Yes. Small Quantity Generators in Wisconsin may accumulate waste for 270 days if transporting waste 200 miles or more to a designated facility. Many Wisconsin generators qualify for this extension. You must document the distance justification.
Q: Can I dispose of fluorescent bulbs in regular trash in Wisconsin? A: No. Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury and must be managed as universal waste. Wisconsin prohibits disposal of mercury-containing lamps in regular trash. We provide universal waste collection and recycling services.
Q: How do I handle pharmaceutical waste in Wisconsin? A: Pharmaceutical waste must be managed as hazardous waste under EPA regulations. Controlled substances also require DEA compliance including DEA Form 41. We provide comprehensive pharmaceutical waste management services including DEA-witnessed disposal for controlled substances.
Q: What should I do if I have a hazardous waste spill in Wisconsin? A: Contain the spill if safe to do so, protect personnel, and evacuate if necessary. For reportable quantities or releases that may impact the environment, contact WDNR's 24-hour spill hotline at 1-800-943-0003 and the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802. We can assist with cleanup and proper disposal.
Q: Can used oil be recycled in Wisconsin? A: Yes. Used oil that hasn't been mixed with hazardous waste can often be recycled under Wisconsin's used oil regulations, which are less stringent than hazardous waste rules. We can help determine proper classification and management.
Q: What are penalties for violations in Wisconsin? A: WDNR can assess civil penalties for hazardous waste violations, with additional federal penalties possible under RCRA. Wisconsin actively enforces regulations and violations should be taken seriously and corrected promptly.
Q: How long do I need to keep hazardous waste records in Wisconsin? A: Generators must keep manifests and records for at least three years. Some records may need longer retention. Maintain organized, accessible records for WDNR inspections.
Q: Do I need permits to store hazardous waste? A: Generators storing waste within regulatory accumulation time limits (90 days for LQGs, 180/270 days for SQGs) do not need storage permits. Extended storage requires WDNR permits with significant regulatory requirements. We help businesses maintain compliant operations within accumulation limits.
Q: What happens to my waste after pickup? A: Waste is transported to permitted facilities for treatment, disposal, or recycling. We provide manifest documentation tracking waste through final disposition. You receive certificates verifying proper management supporting your compliance records.
Contact Hazardous Waste Disposal for Wisconsin Services
Whether you're located in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Appleton, Racine, Kenosha, Oshkosh, Wausau, La Crosse, Eau Claire, or anywhere else throughout Wisconsin, we provide professional hazardous waste management services tailored to your needs.
Phone: (800) 582-4833
Email: info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
Website: www.hazardouswastedisposal.com
Our team is ready to assist with:
Initial waste assessments and consultations
Wisconsin regulatory compliance guidance
Scheduled waste pickup services
One-time cleanouts and project work
Emergency response and spill cleanup coordination
Container supply and drum exchange programs
Training and best practices support
All types of hazardous and universal waste
Pharmaceutical waste including controlled substances
Manufacturing waste management
Paper industry waste
Dairy and food processing waste
Agricultural hazardous waste
Contact us today to discuss your Wisconsin hazardous waste management needs. We provide responsive, professional service with transparent pricing and deep understanding of Wisconsin's industries and regulatory environment.
Let us handle your hazardous waste management needs so you can focus on your core business operations. With over three decades of experience and commitment to compliance, safety, and environmental protection, we're your trusted partner for hazardous waste disposal in Wisconsin.