Each Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb (CFL) contains approximately 3-4 milligrams of mercury, and fluorescent tube light bulbs contain even greater quantities. As with any household item that contains a hazardous material, they should be properly handled at the end of their lives, which is why the Village of Wilmette, in partnership with the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC), offers residents free fluorescent light bulb recycling.
THIS SERVICE RESUMED ON 6/26/20. Residents can drop off Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and 4′ and 8′ length fluorescent tubes for recycling at the Wilmette Public Works Facility, located at 711 Laramie Ave, from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Friday. A limit of 12 lights will be accepted from each resident per visit.
For a complete list of acceptable and non-acceptable items, please click here.
If you have any questions about the Fluorescent Light Bulb Recycling Program, please contact Public Works at 847-853-7500 or pubworks@wilmette.com.