Some entities generate very little hazardous waste and may be
eligible to participate in the Very Small Quantity Generator
(VSQG) Program. The Program is designed to provide an
inexpensive hazardous waste disposal
option to businesses, schools, non-profits, and other entities.
The Program operates by appointment only.
Are you a VSQG?
A VSQG is any business that generates less than 100 kilograms
(about 220 pounds or 27 gallons) of hazardous waste per month.
Typical VSQG businesses include painters, contractors, property
managers, autobody shops, dry cleaners, schools, small
laboratories, and many others.
Some businesses do not generate waste on a regular basis, but do
have paint, fluorescent lights, or other wastes lying around. So,
even if you want to “clean up” the office, you may generate small
amounts of hazardous waste. Such businesses are also considered a
VSQG.
Who May Participate?
Only qualifying VSQG businesses operating within San Mateo County
may participate in VSQG collection events. Businesses that
generate greater than 27 gallons or 220 pounds of hazardous
waste per month cannot participate. If you fall into this group,
contact an inspector in the Hazardous
Materials Program (CUPA) at (650) 372-6200 or see other
options below.
If you only have paint to recycle, please visit paintcare.org/vsqg and
paintcare.org/contractors
to find a drop-off site near you to recycle your leftover and
unwanted paint.
If you only generate universal waste such as fluorescent lamps
and batteries, another option is to contact a recycler. Please
visit smchealth.org/universalwaste for
recycling options.
Don’t Qualify as a VSQG?
If your business generates more than 100 kilograms (27 gallons or
220 pounds) of hazardous waste, please find a certified hauler to
properly dispose of your waste:
Commercial hauler information is found
on our hazardous
waste hauler list or the Department of Toxic
Substance Control’s registered hazardous waste transporter
database at hwts.dtsc.ca.gov/transporters/. Businesses
that generate electronic waste, PV modules, appliances, or large
quantities of universal waste can find a universal waste
hauler at smchealth.org/universalwaste.
Accepted Wastes and Costs
Wastes accepted and associated costs are listed in the VSQG Fee Schedule.
Please note the container size of the waste must be less than 5
gallons total. The base appointment fee is $25. In addition to
the appointment fee, the cost of disposal are prorated by the
type and amount of waste you have (on a per unit basis).
The Program is designed to provide an inexpensive disposal
option for entities generating less than 100 kilograms
(about 220 pounds or 27 gallons) of hazardous waste per month.
Unaccepted Wastes
Waste in a container that is larger than 5 gallons in size,
maximum, is not accepted. The following list of wastes that are
not accepted by the program:
- Radioactive Wastes
- Electronic Wastes and Appliances
- Compressed Gas Cylinders (except propane)
- Explosives and Ammunition
- Medical/Biological Wastes
- Sharps and Needles
- Tires
- Asbestos
- Pressure Treated Wood
Legal Requirements
If your business qualifies as a VSQG, certain legal requirements
will apply to your business, including hazardous waste storage
amounts, transportation limits, and State EPA Identification
numbers. Please contact an inspector in the Hazardous Materials
Program (CUPA) at (650) 372-6200 for these and other legal
requirements.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need further information, please
call (650) 464-6734 or email cgleaves@smcgov.org.
