Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste contains ingredients or components that are considered dangerous or toxic for humans and the environment. In 1976, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act was passed and establishes a framework for management and disposal of hazardous waste. The IWMA has created several locations throughout San Luis Obispo County where hazardous waste can be disposed of by both businesses and residents.
Please be aware that the disposal process for businesses and residents is different.
Residents click here to view hours and locations
Businesses click here to learn about the drop-off process and schedule an appointment
Accepted Waste Streams
There are three different kinds of waste streams that are accepted at our Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facilities in San Luis Obispo County. Below are examples of items in each of these three streams:
Hazardous
- Aerosols
- Corrosive Liquids
- Fire Extinguishers
- Mercury
- Paint (containing PCB)
- Pesticides
- Propane Tanks
Universal
- Batteries
- Fluorescent Bulbs
- Gasoline (you must leave your container, it will not be returned)
- Halogen Bulbs
- Used Motor Oil (can be brought in in any container that has a locking or closing lid, e.g. milk jug. You must leave your container, it will not be returned)
- Paint (including oil-based and latex)
- Thermostats
- IT Assets: Monitors, Servers, Computers, Laptops, Routers, Hard Drives, Cables and Chargers
- Office Equipment: Telecom Systems, Copiers, Printers, Fax Machines
- Scientific and Medical Devices: Satellite and Imaging Equipment
- Consumer Electronics Equipment: TVs, LCDs, DVDs, VCRs and Stereo Equipment
- Cell Phones, Smart Phones and PDAs
- Small Appliances: Microwaves, Smoke Detectors, Toasters, Vaccuum Cleaners
- We do not accept stoves, refrigerators, or freezers – please contact your local appliance retailer or landfill for assistance.
If you have any questions, please contact us at (805) 782-8530.
