Dispose of household hazardous waste

Many products found in households, garages and yards contain hazardous materials. It’s important to get rid of them properly at the Alameda County Household Hazardous Drop-Off Center.

You can also drop off batteries at the Piedmont Fire Station.

Need to know

  • Free
  • Drop off available during certain times

Before you start

Household waste items allowed:

  • Auto products, such as old fuel, motor oil, oil filters and batteries
  • Batteries, fluorescent bulbs, mercury-containing devices and thermostats
  • Garden products, such as pesticides and fertilizers
  • Paint, stain varnish, thinner and adhesives, resins and putties
  • Poisons, such as pesticides, cleaners, and fertilizers
  • Prescription and over-the-counter medications except for controlled substances (home-generated "sharps" waste allowed in approved containers)

If you are not sure how to dispose of an item, use the “What do I do with…” search tool to find out.

Sharps

Sharps (like needles) need to be in approved containers. You can buy these at most pharmacies. Do not put them in coffee cans, bleach containers, or soda bottles.

Light bulbs

If fluorescent bulbs are compact and unbroken, you can put them with your curbside waste. Seal them in a plastic bag and leave them on top of the recycling cart.

Steps

  1. Gather your items for disposal.
  2. Check to see if you are within the allowed amount:
    • 15 gallons of liquid waste or 125 pounds of solid waste.
    • Individual items must be 5 gallons or smaller and weigh 50 pounds or less.
  3. Make sure containers are sealed.
  4. Bring it to 2100 East 7th Street in Oakland:
    • Wednesday to Friday, 9am-2:30pm
    • Saturday, 9am-4pm
    • Closed Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday

What’s next

You can drop off hazardous waste as often as you need to. If you have items that were not accepted, use the RE:Source “What do I do with…” search tool to find out how to get rid of it.

Get help

Alameda County Household Hazardous Drop-Off Center

  • (800) 606-6606
  • 2100 East 7th Street, Oakland
  • Open hours:
    • Wed-Fri, 9am-2:30pm
    • Saturday, 9am-4pm