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Environmental Health Services Division., Household Hazardous Waste Program

Government

Environmental Health Services Division., Household Hazardous Waste Program

San Mateo County Health System

Provides a way for residents to dispose of household chemical and other hazardous materials.

Description:

The Household Hazardous Waste Program (HHW) provides a proper disposal service for household waste from the residents of the county. The primary goal of the program is to keep hazardous wastes from entering landfills, drinking water, surface or groundwater sources. Items collected include latex and oil-based paint, paint thinners and solvents, motor oil, antifreeze, household cleaners, garden chemicals, hobby and pool products. There is a product reuse give-away program and a latex paint recycling program. The Used Oil Program is also operated by the Environmental Health Services Division. Waste is collected from residents by appointment only. Residents can make an appointment online at www.smchealth.org/hhw or call the automated voice mail system at 650-363-4718. There are five permanent and six temporary collection locations in the county. The Very Small Quantity Generator Program (VSQG) provides a cost effective disposal option for businesses that produce less than 27 gallons of hazardous waste per month. VSQG collection events are held twice a month. The Product Reuse Giveaway Program offers household waste products deemed reusable. These products are given away free to the public from the warehouse located in Redwood City. The warehouse is open the first and third Thursday from 3 to 4 pm. There are five latex paint collection locations throughout the county. This paint is sent to a paint manufacturer for reprocessing. The Used Oil Program provides for safe disposal of used motor oil, oil filters and antifreeze. Call the toll-free number (800-CLEANUP) for recycling locations.

Location

Public Transit:

Varies according to site.
2000 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo, CA 94403 37.5454495 -122.3208839 Government

Service Options

Languages Spoken:

  • Spanish

Services

Fees:

Free for households. Costs vary for businesses. Cash and checks accepted.

Audience:

Homeowners/residents, very small quantity generators (business)

Eligibility:

Resident of San Mateo County needing to dispose household hazardous waste or business generating less than 27 gallons of hazardous waste per month

How to Apply:

Call the 24-hour appointment line or make an appointment online for household hazardous waste. For a price quotation and appointment, businesses should fax an inventory with such information as amount and type of hazardous waste to 916-351-1707.

Service Wait Estimate:

Few days to 1 month.

Service Areas:

  • San Mateo County