Businesses with small quantities of hazardous waste can take it to Recology. For large amount of hazardous waste, or to find a hazardous waste hauler, contact SF Environment at (415) 355-3700.
San Francisco businesses must safely dispose of hazardous wastes.
Most businesses generate waste that is hazardous to the environment and our health. These include solvents, paints, cleaners, fluorescent lights, aerosol cans, printer ink, batteries, and other items. State law requires that these items be disposed of properly to protect our health and the environment. San Francisco businesses have various options available to safely recycle and dispose of hazardous waste.
Businesses with small quantities of hazardous waste can take it to Recology. For large amount of hazardous waste, or to find a hazardous waste hauler, contact SF Environment at (415) 355-3700.
Businesses that generate less than 220 pounds or 27 gallons of most hazardous wastes each month are eligible to use the City's low-cost hazardous waste disposal program called the Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program.
The VSQG program is available by appointment only. Contact Recology at (415) 330-1425. Appointments are generally scheduled on two Wednesdays per month. To prepare for an appointment, you need to have this information ready:
- The name of your business, the type and amount of hazardous waste you will be bringing, and how you will bring it to Recology's facility
- An identification number issued by the state ("EPA ID number") is required to use the program. If you don't know your EPA ID number, contact Recology at (415) 330-1425 for assistance.
Disposal fees vary by type and volume of waste. The program is subsidized in order to keep fees low. You can visit Recology's website to learn more about the Very Small Quantity Generator Program (click on VSQG tab).
Helpful documents and links
Documents available for download
- Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program Brochure (English / Español / 中文) (PDF)
- Proper Disposal of Mercury-Containing Lighting FactSheet for Businesses (PDF)
- Quick Guide to Proper Lighting Disposal (PDF) - Print Out and Post!
Related external links
- How to Get an EPA ID - State of California
- Hazardous Materials and Waste Program - San Francisco Department of Public Health
- UCSF's Work Matters Brochure (PDF) - University of California San Francisco
- Free Pick-up of Large Quantities of Architectural Paint - PaintCare Product Stewardship Organization