How to Dispose of Cannabis Waste in Missouri

Sep 2

Proper cannabis waste disposal isn’t just a box to check—it’s an essential part of running a reputable operation in Missouri. Staying aligned with state regulations protects your license, staff, and community, while sustainable practices can also reduce costs and environmental impact.

Not all providers follow Missouri’s strict requirements, so choosing a fully licensed partner is key. Monarch Waste Co., the state’s first cannabis waste disposal service, created this guide to help operators stay compliant and manage waste responsibly.

Understand Hazardous vs. Non-Hazardous Waste

Most cannabis plant material is classified as non-hazardous. By contrast, solvent extraction waste is hazardous if it’s not properly off-gassed, and it needs to comply with additional regulations from the EPA and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Render Waste Unusable

Before leaving a licensed facility, cannabis waste must be rendered unusable. Regulations require waste to be ground and mixed with at least 50% non-cannabis material, such as pine chips, cardboard, or paper, by volume. Pine chips are often preferred because they help control odors and reduce the risk of attracting pests.

Transporting unrendered cannabis waste off-site is strictly prohibited and considered a major compliance violation.

Monitor Off-Gassing and Air Quality

Biomass left after butane, propane, pentane, or ethanol extraction will off-gas flammable vapors. Always use an LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) meter to check vapor levels. If they exceed safety thresholds, the material should only be off-gassed in a C1D1 room before being rendered and stored.

Store Waste Securely

Cannabis waste must be stored in locked, tamper-resistant receptacles, placed either in a limited-access indoor space or outside in a locked, covered area. State law also requires storage areas to be monitored at all times by at least two camera angles.

Prevent Damage and Clear Pathways

Remove metal tools and hardware from waste barrels, including scissors and pruning shears. Doing so protects staff, prevents damage to shredding equipment, and avoids costly repairs.

Waste storage areas should also be positioned close to cultivation or processing rooms to allow for easier transport. Clear, unobstructed pathways make movement more efficient and pickups go more smoothly.

Keep Detailed Records

A compliant cannabis waste service maintains thorough manifests and supporting records, keeping them for at least five years. Documentation extends beyond paperwork—video of each destruction needs to be captured from at least two camera angles, with clear visibility of the date, agent IDs, and methods used.

Leverage Monarch’s Compliant Solutions

Cannabis operators face strict requirements in Missouri, and even small oversights in waste handling can lead to costly violations. Monarch Waste Co. provides services that safeguard facilities, protect staff, and streamline operations while also supporting sustainability goals. Our team members:

Provide clean barrels before inspections and replace damaged receptacles on the day of pickup.
Render all collected waste on-site and log it in the waste manifest for tracking purposes.
Deliver the rendered waste to one of our composting, disposal, or recycling partners for responsible, sustainable processing.
Carry valid agent IDs issued by the Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS), demonstrating they are qualified and authorized to work in a cannabis facility.
Offer guidance on waste separation, odor control, off-gassing protocols, and recordkeeping, along with support for regular audits to keep facilities inspection-ready.

Zachary McCullough