Household Hazardous Waste Program
Household Hazardous Waste Has Its Place… And it’s not inside any Mission Trail collection bin.
Hazardous waste can’t be thrown out with the trash, recycling or organics. Before you toss it, check the label. If it’s marked Danger, Warning, Poisonous, Toxic, or Flammable, it’s probably hazardous.
Many hazardous items can be taken to Santa Clara County’s local household hazardous waste collection facility. Take advantage of this free drop-off program! Visit www.hhw.org or call 408-299-7300 for location, hours and more detailed information.
The county accepts the following Hazardous items:
- Pesticides
- Household & automotive batteries
- Fertilizers
- Pool & Photo chemicals
- Paint/varnish
- Toxic cleaning products
- Mercury-containing items (thermometers & fluorescent lamps for example)
- Medications
- Sharps/Needles (must be properly contained)
- Automotive fluids
How do I dispose of e-waste?
Computers, printers, televisions, fax machines, VCRs, stereo components, video game players, and other forms of e-waste contain hazardous substances and require special handling. Residents can deliver e-waste to any number of free collection sites. For a list of sites, visit www.hhw.org, www.calrecycle.ca.gov/Electronics/, and www.recyclestuff.org.
Looking to dispose of sharps?
The Los Altos Pharmacy, located at 255 2nd Street, collects needles & lancets. Program is free to local residents. Sharps must be inside an approved biohazard container.