Electronic / Universal Waste
In February, 2006, the State of California prohibited the disposing of electronic waste, fluorescent tubes, consumer batteries and mercury thermostats into the trash. Known as "Universal Waste", these wastes are health and environmental hazards if they are improperly disposed of.
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 Household Hazardous Waste, and how to dispose of it properly, please visit our Household Hazardous Waste page.
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 Household Hazardous Waste, and how to dispose of it properly, please visit our Household Hazardous Waste page.
Disposal Information
Residents can dispose of their hazardous waste through the Santa Clara Country Hazardous Waste Program. Drop off facilities are open several days each month. To find the date and location of the next event, and schedule an appointment, please call (408) 299-7300.