11 Items Illegal To Throw Away In Tennessee

We hear it from friends and family all the time "Oh, did you know you can't do that? It's illegal." So why should today be any different?

When you're getting your house cleared out for garbage day, it's important to know what you can and can't put in the trash can. There are certain things that have to go in the recycling can, and some things that have to go in the trash can because they're greasy, like a pizza box. Some things, we can't put in either can because of the environmental hazard, but also the danger it poses to the people who pick up our trash.

Recycling has seen an uptick since the turn of the century, with most communities having a separate can for garbage and for recycling. In some states, you even pay a deposit on your cans, which you get back when you return them at the store. You feel good about what you've done, and your next drink is just about paid for.

Some Batteries Cannot Go In The Trash

You know how it goes. You're flipping through channels and all of a sudden, the remote stops working. You're mad because you can't remember where the AAA's are, and you whip the old ones right into the can. Those types of batteries are fine, but the EPA wants any batteries with alkaline and zinc carbon to be disposed of properly.

EPArecommendation: send used alkaline and zinc carbon batteries to battery recyclers or check with your local or state solid waste authority.

The Things That Should Never Be Thrown Away

There's a whole laundry list of things that you can't throw in the garbage can, and we've got them here.