Treated Wood Illegal in Garbage & Drains Hazardous Waste When preservative-treated wood has reached the end of its service life it needs to be properly disposed; the chemicals it contains can leach out of the wood and contaminate surface water and groundwater. This can pose a potential risk to human health and the environment. (source: California Department of Toxic Substances Control) Special Waste CollectionTreated wood cannot be placed in your containers. Schedule a Special Waste Collection by emailing [email protected] or calling Athens’ Customer Service Department at 888-336-6100. Fees may apply. LA County, S.A.F.E. Collection Centers will accept wood with creosote such as railroad ties. Must be less than 3 ft. in length. Never Burn Treated Wood Chemicals such as creosote are used when treating wood, which creates toxic ash and emissions when burned. These particles lodge in soil and groundwater and take many years to break down, so never burn wood if you think it has been treated. Take Care With Sawdust Avoid breathing in sawdust from treated wood, and do not add it to compost or scatter on the ground. Ways to Reduce Choose a Different Wood Redwood and cedar are both naturally pest-resistant. Suppliers are also starting to offer more non-toxic treated wood options.