Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQG) collections are held at our San Mateo facility on the first and third Wednesday of each month by appointment only. Appointments are available between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

To request an appointment: 

1. Determine if your business qualifies as a VSQG by only generating less than 100 kilograms (about 220 pounds or 27 gallons) of hazardous waste per month.

2. See if your business requires a hazardous waste EPA ID number from the State Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) by reviewing their website and/or Fact Sheet. If your business requires an EPA ID, you must obtain one.

3. Prepare an inventory list of the wastes you need to dispose of. Please include what the waste is, the container size, and how much you have. Example: Used Paint Thinner, 4 containers 5-gallons in size, 20 gallons; Oily Rags, 1-gallon bucket, 5 pounds; Spray Adhesives, 10 cans, 16 oz. each. 

4. Request an appointment online, by phone, or email. Have your Hazardous Waste EPA ID number if required and waste inventory list ready. Call 1-916-299-4228 or email vsqg@ACTenviro.com.

SELECT YOUR VSQG DROP-OFF DAY AND TIME

5. Receive confirmation of your appointment. Staff will email you a confirmation that includes the total costs for disposal, day and time of your appointment, and driving directions to the collection location.

6. Bring in your waste at your appointed day and time with payment for the cost. Payment may be made by credit card (Visa, Mastercard), check payable to “San Mateo County”, cash, or invoice. A receipt for the  disposal costs will be issued to you.

Only qualifying small businesses, property managers, and nonprofit organizations within San Mateo County are allowed to participate in the Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program to safely manage their hazardous waste. To qualify, the business must generate less than 220 pounds or 27 gallons of hazardous waste per month which includes but is not limited to corrosives, flammables, toxics, and universal wastes such as fluorescent lights and batteries.