Found Needles

Last updated/revised: February 5, 2025

Residents of our communities use needles for a variety of purposes. If you find a needle that has not been properly disposed of, here are some resources to help you.

Please do not place needles in recycling bins or garbage cans.

Needles Found on Public Property

City of Peterborough Property

• If found on a road or sidewalk, contact the Public Works Department at 705-745-1386
• If found in a park or open space, contact Recreation and Parks Services at 705-742-0050 ext. 2205#, or 705-745-1386 if on a weekday past 8:00 p.m. or on weekends
• If urgent, call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122, ext. 225

Public Property in Lakefield or Cavan-Monaghan

• Contact Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122, ext. 225

Public Property in the County of Peterborough (outside of Cavan-Monaghan and Lakefield)

• Contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122

Needles Found on Private Property

Property owners are responsible for any used needles found on private property.  Please see the following resources on handling found needles safely.

• Found Needles Poster
• Found Needles Poster with Peterborough Disposal Locations
• Found Needles – Talking to Kids
• List and Map of Needle Disposal Bins
• Video – Disposing of Found Needles

Where to Obtain Biohazard Disposal Bins

If you are finding discarded needles more than occasionally, consider picking up a biohazard container.

• Pharmacies
  You can pick up a yellow needle disposal bin for free at your local pharmacy.
• PARN
  You can pick up needle disposal bins, tongs, and gloves free of charge at one of PARN’s sites. They can also provide brief education on safe disposal.
• Permanent Needle Disposal Kiosks
  If you would like to purchase a permanent needle disposal kiosk for private property, ECS Cares is one option.

Where to Dispose Safely

Needle disposal containers can be disposed of for free at one of the following locations:

1. Any pharmacy in Peterborough City or County
   • however, they can only accept found needles that are in the approved yellow containers
2. Public needle disposal bins
   • Small containers can be placed in bins
3. The Household Hazardous Waste Depot
   • 400 Pido Road
     Open Wednesday to Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

DO NOT place the container in your household waste or recycling bin.