Ventura County recreational boaters can safely dispose of expired and unwanted marine flares at a special collection event at Channel Islands Harbor.
The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA), in partnership with the Ventura County Harbor Department, will host a marine flare drop-off event on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard.
The event will give eligible recreational boaters an opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted single-use marine flares.
The collection will take place in the Channel Islands Yacht Club parking lot at 4100 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035. Visitors should follow event signs to the designated drop-off location. Marine flares will not be accepted outside the posted event date and hours.
Who Is Eligible?
The collection event is open to recreational boaters who either live in Ventura County or berth their boats in Ventura County. Participants must provide proof of Ventura County residency or documentation of their boat slip fees.
Please note that commercial flares and other hazardous waste will not be accepted at this event.
Why Proper Marine Flare Disposal Matters
Marine flares are essential safety equipment for boaters, but expired or unwanted flares require special handling.
Because of their explosive and chemical properties, flares can’t be thrown in the household trash or dropped off at a Household Hazardous Waste Facilities in Ventura County. These facilities are not authorized to accept marine flares, and improper disposal can create safety hazards for workers and the community. Boaters are encouraged to take advantage of designated collection events to ensure these items are handled responsibly.
Currently, Ventura County recreational boaters have no other designated local drop-off option for unwanted marine flares, making this event an important step toward addressing the community’s need for safe and accessible disposal.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Channel Islands Yacht Club parking lot, 4100 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035
Eligibility: Recreational boaters who live in or berth their boats in Ventura County
Required documentation: Proof of residence or boat slip fees
Accepted items: Unwanted single-use marine flares
Not accepted: Commercial flares or other hazardous waste
For more information, please visit: https://www.channelislandsharbor.org/event/channel-islands-harbor-to-host-marine-flare-drop-off-event-october-24/