Electronic / Universal Waste
Electronic waste may NOT be disposed of in the trash!
As of February, 2006, the State of California prohibits the disposing of electronic waste, fluorescent tubes, consumer batteries and mercury thermostats into the trash. Known as "Universal Waste", if disposed of improperly can cause serious threats humans, wildlife and the environment.
As of February, 2006, the State of California prohibits the disposing of electronic waste, fluorescent tubes, consumer batteries and mercury thermostats into the trash. Known as "Universal Waste", if disposed of improperly can cause serious threats humans, wildlife and the environment.
Examples of prohibited wastes:
 Electronic Waste - Computers, computer peripherals, telephones, answering machines, radios, stereo equipment, tape players/recorders, phonographs, VCRs, CD players/recorders, calculators, and microwave ovens.
Mercury Containing Waste - Fluorescent tubes, high-intensity lights, sodium vapor lamps, metal halide lamps, and mercury thermostats and switches. Consumer Batteries - Including carbon-zinc and alkaline, rechargeable, NiCad, lithium, and mercury button batteries. This includes AA, AAA, C, and D batteries. Important Note: Electronics are not the only common household materials that cannot be disposed of in the trash! Paint, cleaners and poisons are several examples of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). For more information on HHW, and how to dispose of it properly, please visit our Household Hazardous Waste page. |
Proper Storage
- Never leave hazardous products within reach of children.
- Never mix chemicals. They can produce deadly gases and possibly explode.
- Do not dispose of hazardous materials in the trash, sewer, storm drains, bodies of water, or on the ground.
- Do not refill empty containers unless the label state this is OK.
- Never remove product labels and always leave products in their original containers.
- Purchase only what you will need. If you have extra, share with a neighbor.
- Store in original containers away from food, pets, and children until a household hazardous waste disposal event is held.
Residential Disposal Information
Universal Waste (except household batteries) will no longer be picked up at the curb, in twice-annual cleanups, special pickups, or debris boxes. However, there are programs in place for San Bruno residents to properly dispose of these materials. They include the following:
San Bruno Garbage Company *Drop-Off Program
San Bruno residents can bring Universal Waste to the San Bruno Garbage Company Transfer Station, 101 Tanforan Avenue on Saturdays from 8:00am to 3:00pm or by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00am - 12:00pm (noon).
*Televisions and computer monitors are subject to a recycling fee. However, at this time, there is no charge for San Bruno residents to drop off the other Universal Wastes listed above. For more information, call San Bruno Garbage at (650) 583-8536 or use our online contact form.
Household Battery Collection
San Bruno residents can place household batteries in a clear plastic bag and set on top of their recycling container for collection by San Bruno Garbage Company. Battery Bags are available for free at the Public Works Engineering counter, located at San Bruno City Hall, 567 El Camino Real.
Goodwill Donation Centers
Goodwill has a free drop-off program for computer monitors, televisions and cell phones. For more information, contact Goodwill at 1-888-4GOODWILL or visit www.sfgoodwill.org.
Business Recycling Options
"Business" includes government, non-profits, schools, etc., everyone other than a private resident!
First, see if the business qualifies for the Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program: Does the business generate up to 27 gallons or 220 pounds maximum of universal waste (and other hazardous waste) per month?
To figure out how much fluorescent bulbs weigh - multiply the total length in feet by 0.15 pounds/foot. EX: One 4-foot tube calculates as 4 feet times 0.15 pounds/foot = 0.6 pounds. A business would have to generate 367 4-foot tubes each month to equate to 220 pounds.
This Program is now being contracted out to our new hazardous waste contractor, PSC (Philip Services Co.) Have the business call Toll Free: 1-877-748-3040 and ask for Marc Winkler. The business must have their EPA ID number and have an itemized inventory of their wastes ready. The disposal cost for fluorescent lamps is $0.12 per foot, and for batteries is $1.00 per pound, with a $30 service fee. For costs to recycle/dispose of other hazardous wastes, see San Mateo County VSQG Rate Schedule.
To obtain an EPA ID number, the business must fill out DTSC's Form 1358. Click here to obtain DTSC's Form 1358.
If the business generates MORE than 27 gallons or 220 pounds, then the business does NOT qualify for the program. In this case, refer the business to the following resources:
First, see if the business qualifies for the Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program: Does the business generate up to 27 gallons or 220 pounds maximum of universal waste (and other hazardous waste) per month?
To figure out how much fluorescent bulbs weigh - multiply the total length in feet by 0.15 pounds/foot. EX: One 4-foot tube calculates as 4 feet times 0.15 pounds/foot = 0.6 pounds. A business would have to generate 367 4-foot tubes each month to equate to 220 pounds.
This Program is now being contracted out to our new hazardous waste contractor, PSC (Philip Services Co.) Have the business call Toll Free: 1-877-748-3040 and ask for Marc Winkler. The business must have their EPA ID number and have an itemized inventory of their wastes ready. The disposal cost for fluorescent lamps is $0.12 per foot, and for batteries is $1.00 per pound, with a $30 service fee. For costs to recycle/dispose of other hazardous wastes, see San Mateo County VSQG Rate Schedule.
To obtain an EPA ID number, the business must fill out DTSC's Form 1358. Click here to obtain DTSC's Form 1358.
If the business generates MORE than 27 gallons or 220 pounds, then the business does NOT qualify for the program. In this case, refer the business to the following resources:
- The Universal Waste & Fluorescent Lamp Recyclers List at www.flowstobay.org
- The Hazardous Waste Hauler List from www.flowstobay.org
- The yellow pages under Waste Recycling & Disposal Services
- The San Mateo County Environmental Health Department: (650) 363-4305