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VSQG business waste drop off program

Properly disposing of hazardous waste can be costly and inconvenient. Fortunately, business owners, government agencies, and non-profits in Santa Clara County have a cost-effective and environmentally sound option to meet their hazardous waste recycling and disposal needs.
The Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) program provides a safe and affordable hazardous waste management option for qualifying business, non-profits, and government agencies.

County staff move hazardous waste on carts after unloading it from the trunk of a truck

Businesses that qualify as a VSQG can manage their hazardous waste through our VSQG program.

To qualify as a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) business:

  • You must generate less than 220lbs or 27 gallons of hazardous waste per month, or less than 2.2lbs of extremely hazardous waste per month.
  • Non-profits, landlords, apartment managers, and businesses who generate hazardous waste are considered small businesses, and are not exempt from disposal fees.

For more information, see California Health and Safety Code, section 25218.1 and Code of Federal Regulations 40, section 261.5.

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Common hazardous waste we accept

  • Latex and Oil-Based Paint as well as Paint-Related Materials such as Stains, Varnishes, Roofing Tar, Adhesives, Joint Compounds, and other Petroleum-Based Products.
  • Automotive Fluids including Motor Oil, Lubricants, Oil Filters, and Antifreeze.
  • Landscaping Chemicals including Pesticides, Herbicides, Fungicides, and Fertilizers.
  • Acids, Bases, Oxidizers, and Swimming Pool Chemicals.
  • Solvents, Flammable Solids and Liquids, and Detergents.
  • Mercury-containing products such as Fluorescent Lamps, Thermometers, and Batteries.
  • Propane Tanks, Helium Tanks, and Aerosol Cans.
  • Developer and Fixer.
  • Electronic waste (TVs, computers, cell phones, peripherals).