Virginia authorizes syringe services programs under Virginia Code Section 32.1-45.4; Richmond participants and households must dispose of used sharps in approved rigid containers, never in curbside trash or recycling.
Virginia Code Section 32.1-45.4 authorizes the Department of Health to permit comprehensive harm reduction (syringe services) programs in localities at risk of HIV or hepatitis outbreaks. Richmond participants receive sterile syringes and sharps containers and must return used sharps for disposal. Households disposing of insulin or other prescribed sharps must use rigid puncture-resistant containers and may drop them at participating Richmond pharmacies or VDH-listed sites. Loose syringes in curbside refuse or recycling violate Richmond solid-waste rules under Chapter 35 and can trigger a refusal-to-collect tag.
Improper disposal of syringes in curbside trash or public spaces can lead to refused collection, fines under Richmond Chapter 35, and potential biohazard cleanup charges.
See how Richmond's syringe disposal rules stack up against other locations.
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