Household Hazardous Waste: What do with the stuff we can’t take for you?
While the list of what we do take from you is very long, there are some things that we just can’t haul away for you. Hazardous materials like paint, acetone, cleaning products and gasoline, batteries and light bulbs need special attention and proper disposal. Cities and counties offer drop-off areas that allow you to cruise in and get rid of your hazardous waste for free – up to a certain amount per household, per year. (State law limits the total amount you may transport in one vehicle to 125 pounds or 15 gallons.)
Where to Dispose of Hazardous Waste in Your Area
In Alameda County: Oakland, Hayward, Fremont, and Livermore.
Oakland: 2100 East 7thSt. (Wed.-Fri. 9 am – 2:30 pm) (Sat. 9 am – 4 pm)
Freemont: 41149 Boyce Rd. (Wed.-Fri. 8:30 am – 2:30 pm) (Sat. 8 am – 4:30 pm)
Livermore: 5584 La Ribera St. (Fri. 9 am – 2:30 pm) (Sat. 9 am – 4 pm)
Hayward: 2091 W. Winton Ave. (Fri. 9 am – 2:30 pm) (Sat. 9 am – 4 pm)
Helpful tips for disposing of your hazardous waste in Alameda County:
- CA state law limits the total amount you may transport in one vehicle to 125 pounds or 15 gallons
- The waste must come from a resident of the house it was generated in, and you may need to bring proof of residency, like a utility bill, or your driver’s license with current local residence within the county you are dropping off at.
- Don’t mix your hazardous wastes together, and be sure the container is solid, with no leaks, and safely packed for transport
In San Francisco, schedule your waste to be picked up! https://www.recology.com/faq/
San Mateo County
Drop-off events are held Thursday – Saturday in San Mateo.
San Jose / Santa Clara County
San Jose has a permanent Household Hazardous Waste facility at the Environmental Innovation Center.
Call (408) 299-7300 to schedule a free drop-off appointment.
Additionally, if you are a small business in Santa Clara County, you may qualify for the Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) program. Check out their website for all the details and steps on how to participate.
Dispose of your household hazardous waste responsibly
Remember you NEVER should pour your waste down the drain, into a storm drain, or put in the toilet or trash bin. While we are unable to pickup or take away your household hazardous waste, we hope this little cheap sheet is handy in helping you figure out a plan for properly and safely disposing of it yourself.
For all the things we CAN haul away for you, give us a call at (925) 785-6726, or book online.