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.

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.

Household Hazardous Waste and universal waste collection events are held regularly in Santa Clara County. For more information on these events, or to schedule an appointment, visit the Santa Clara County Household Hazardous Waste Program page.

Santa Clara County Household Hazardous Waste Program
Santa Clara County HHW Online Appointment Form
Santa Clara County HHW Resource List

• California Department of Toxic Substances Control
• California Recycling