Drugs & Drains Policy

The City of La Habra would like to remind residents to not throw drugs, medications and pharmaceuticals down the drain.

Impact of Drugs in the Drainage System

The Orange County wastewater treatment facilities are quite advanced, but are not designed to remove or destroy pharmaceutical chemicals. The long-term health effects of these medicines on aquatic life and humans are still not certain, but we know that some risks exist. Some drugs, such as antibiotics, can help microorganisms to develop immunities making them more resistant to treatment.

Properly Disposing of Drugs

The best plan of action is to make sure no drugs go down the drain at all. Disposing of old medications and drugs is easy for La Habra residents. In conjunction with National Prescription Take Back Day, the La Habra Police Department conducts 2 events each year, 1 in the spring and 1 in the fall, where residents can turn in unused prescription medication.

Collection Center Dropoff

Residents may also take them to the nearest household hazardous waste collection center, located at:
1071 N Blue Gum Street
Anaheim, CA 92806

The collection center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. Visit the Orange County Landfills website for a complete list of collection centers. For additional information, please contact the Public Works Department at (562) 383-4170.