Electronic (E-Waste) and universal waste (U-Waste) such as computer monitors, TVs, fluorescent tubes, and consumer batteries, are prohibited from being disposed of in the garbage. U-Waste is also commonly referred to as household hazardous waste (HHW). Electronic and universal waste contains a variety of toxic components like lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and flame retardants. When dumped in a landfill, these materials can contaminate the soil and groundwater, thus impacting surrounding areas.
- Microwaves
- T.V.’s
- Computer monitors and towers
- Cell phones, iPods, DVD players, stereos, etc.
Examples of Universal Waste include:
- Used motor oil and filters
- Batteries
- Fluorescent tubes and bulbs
- Sharps
Examples of Bulky Items include:
- Appliances
- Tires
- Water heaters
- Furniture
Here are some easy ways to deal with E-Waste and U-Waste:
Bulky Item Collection: Residents may schedule up to two (2) free curbside pick-ups per year. Up to two (2) cubic yards of Reusable Materials, up to five (5) E-Waste Items, or up to two (2) Appliances or Bulky Items. Appliances with Freon count as two (2) Bulky Items.
Contact Recology Customer Service at 831.636.7500 to schedule a pick-up.
Environmental Days: Residents are invited to Shred important documents, drop off E-Waste, and pick up free Compost during these free community events for all residents of San Benito County. For more information check our Environmental Days Page!
Brigantino Park, 2100 San Juan Hollister Rd., Hollister CA
January 14
April 8
October 7
San Juan School, 100 Nyland Dr., San Juan Bautista, CA
January 21
April 15
October 14
Drop-off at John Smith Road Landfill
Acceptable electronic waste (e-waste) items can be taken to John Smith Road Landfill Monday through Sunday during their normal operating hours at no additional cost (proof of residence is required). Click here for an e-waste acceptance list and hours of operation.
John Smith Road Landfill
2650 John Smith Road
Hollister, CA 95023
E-Waste Drop-off: During normal operating hours, residents of San Benito County are able to drop off acceptable E-waste, and extra recyclable materials, at no additional cost (proof of residence is required).
Hours of operation:
Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 4 PM
Sat – Sun: 9 AM – 3 PM
HHW Drop-Off Events: San Benito County residents are invited to drop off U-Waste/HHW for FREE during the San Benito County Household Hazardous Waste monthly collection events. These events are the ONLY time when JSRL will accept such materials (fluorescent lights, mercury-containing devices, batteries, etc).
When: Third Saturday of every month
Where: John Smith Road Landfill
Time: 9 AM – 12 PM
More information about JSRL can be found here.
Several local businesses also accept household batteries, automotive batteries, cellular phones, computer equipment, televisions, etc. Some items are accepted for recycling and some are accepted for reuse. For a list of locations and acceptable material, please visit the San Benito County Integrated Waste Management page here.
Additional Resources: