Asbestos disposal
On this page you will find the answers to some frequently asked questions about the safe handling and disposal of asbestos.
Can I remove asbestos from my home?
If you use appropriate safety precautions, you are permitted to remove a maximum of 10sq m of bonded asbestos from your home in New South Wales. However, if removing more, you must hire a qualified asbestos removalist or obtain a SafeWork NSW bonded asbestos removal licence.
Friable or loose asbestos can only be removed by a licensed asbestos removalist with a friable asbestos licence. You can refer to SafeWork NSW's website for a list of available licensed holders.
It is imperative that the legal and safety requirements for the management of asbestos are followed to protect your health and that of your family and to avoid costly fines or clean-up costs. Before commencing any home maintenance work or renovation, it is advisable to visit the Asbestos Awareness website and other useful links listed below for important information and guidance.
How should I handle the removed asbestos and where can I dispose of it?
Asbestos is classified as a hazardous material. There are strict guidelines about how it should be packaged and transported and where it can be disposed of.
Once bonded asbestos products have been safely removed and to minimise the release of dust and fibres, you should:
- wet the asbestos waste and keep it damp to prevent dust. Don't use too much water and ensure water does not run off into drains
- wrap the asbestos in thick plastic (or double wrap in plastic), secure with tape and clearly label as asbestos.
Asbestos waste can only be disposed of at landfills licensed to accept such waste. In the Eurobodalla, asbestos waste can only be disposed of at Brou and Surf Beach waste management facilities. Please contact Brou or Surf Beach landfill to arrange a time to dispose of the asbestos - at least 24 hours' notice must be given to the landfill prior to disposal.
At the landfill, please unload the asbestos in a manner that does not tear the plastic to avoid dust and fibres escaping.
More information
- EPA NSW: Asbestos waste
- SafeWork NSW: Asbestos
- NSW Health: Asbestos and health risks
- Eurobodalla Shire Council: Asbestos
- Eurobodalla Shire Council: Responsibilities of handling and management of asbestos
We can help you
If you need more information, please contact our Public and Environmental Health Team:
- T: 02 4474 1310
- E: Council's Public and Environmental Health Team