Metal-complex azo dyes constitute a significant fraction of the dyes used in the textile industry and exhibit properties such as superior light- and wash-fastness. While effluent color is not always regulated, the textile finishing industry often decolorizes wastewater using processes including chemical oxidation. In this study, the use of ozone, hydrogen peroxide/ozone and UV/ozone oxidant systems was examined for treatment of two common metal-complex (premetalized) dyes, Acid Black 52 (chromium) and Direct Blue 80 (copper). Oxidant dosages required for decolorization of these dyes were determined. The effect of bicarbonate alkalinity on the ozonation and the hydrogen peroxide/ozone processes also was examined.