OJAI VALLEY : Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Scheduled

Ojai Valley residents will have a chance to get rid of their used motor oil, leftover paint, garden pesticides and other materials at a hazardous waste drop-off Feb. 25.

There is one catch, however. Unlike past disposal days, residents cannot simply show up and unload cans of toxic substances.

They must first make an appointment by calling 654-3976. Each person will then be mailed an admission card telling them the address of the drop-off point.

Peter Kaiser, an analyst with the Ventura County Solid Waste Management Agency, said the appointments are used to avoid having residents wait in line for hours.

Items that may be dropped off include water- and oil-based paints, liquid fertilizers, household cleaners and polishers, house and car batteries, pool and photography chemicals, fluorescent light tubes, antifreeze and oil filters.

Substances that will not be accepted include business and commercial waste, medical waste, explosives and ammunition, fireworks, radioactive waste, smoke detectors and tires.

Up to five gallons or 50 pounds of waste may be dropped off at each appointment.

The event is open to residents of Ojai, Meiners Oaks, Mira Monte, Oak View and Casitas Springs.

Similar events will be held March 9 in Santa Paula and Oxnard.