Louisville Metro Public Health & Wellness operates a Syringe Services Program authorized by KRS §218A.500. Residents may exchange used sharps, access naloxone, and dispose of needles through LMPHW sites and authorized partners.
Kentucky authorized local syringe exchange programs under KRS §218A.500 (the 2015 anti-heroin act). Louisville Metro Public Health & Wellness operates the LMPHW Syringe Services Program (formerly the needle exchange) at fixed and mobile sites across Jefferson County, providing one-for-one exchange, sharps containers, naloxone (Narcan) kits, HIV/HCV testing, and treatment referrals. Residents must dispose of used sharps in rigid puncture-resistant containers. LMPHW accepts personal sharps containers from residents at designated drop-off points. Discarding loose needles in trash or recycling is prohibited and creates a hazard for sanitation workers.
Improper disposal of sharps in regular trash or public spaces can constitute illegal dumping of biohazard waste and may trigger fines under solid waste rules and state biohazard statutes.
See how Louisville's syringe disposal rules stack up against other locations.
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