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Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program

Environmental Health Services

Divisions / Environmental Health Services / Waste, Recycling & Safe Disposal / Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program

San Mateo County’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program helps residents safely and responsibly dispose of household hazardous waste for free.

Make an HHW Drop-Off Appointment

Residents can make a free appointment to drop off household hazardous waste at a County HHW facility. Schedule your appointment online or call 650-372-6200. Please review the program rules before scheduling.

Other free disposal options are also available for certain items:
Local drop-off locations: Find convenient recycling and disposal options for paint, batteries, and fluorescent lights.
Curbside pickup: Some cities offer battery pickup, and select cities offer used oil pickup, on your regular recycling or garbage collection day. Check with your hauler for details.

Make an HHW Drop-Off Appointment

Book your appointment to safely dispose of paint, batteries, solvents and other household hazardous waste at San Mateo County’s drop-off facility.

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What Goes Where

Find quick guidance on sorting everyday items—recycling, compost, trash and hazardous waste—to ensure proper disposal and protect public health in San Mateo County.

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Curbside Pick-Up Options

Find details on your residential curbside collection services, including recycling, compost, trash and used oil/filter pickup options in San Mateo County.

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Free Product Give Away Program

Find details on county events offering free compost bins, reusable bags and other products to help residents reduce waste and support environmental sustainability.

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Recycle Batteries Right

Locate convenient, free drop-off locations for household batteries throughout San Mateo County to ensure safe and responsible disposal.

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E-Vapes

Find information about e-cigarettes and vapes, including health risks and safe disposal options.

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Where to Recycle Fluorescent Lights

Find free drop-off locations for recycling fluorescent lamps, bulbs and tubes across San Mateo County to prevent hazardous waste and promote environmental safety.

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MOVING? What you need to know about household hazardous waste

Find essential tips and rules for ensuring safe, clean and proper waste disposal during your move in or out of San Mateo County residences.

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Middle & High School Education Program

Explore educational resources and workshops to teach students and staff how to safely manage and dispose of household hazardous waste.

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Events

Today

  • Marine Flares Collection Event

    Pillar Point Harbor 1 Johnson Pier, Half Moon Bay, CA, United States

    Marine flares collection event - open to San Mateo County residents and businesses.

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