Hazardous Waste

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) are items that pose a health or environmental threat when not disposed of properly. It's illegal to put HHW as paint, pesticides, batteries, e-waste (electronic waste), and fluorescent bulbs in the garbage, sink, toilet, or storm drains. Electronic waste (e-waste) is any electronic device that is no longer in use. It is illegal to dispose of electronic wastes in the garbage because they contain toxic materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. View the Republic Services Comprehensive Recycling Guide for more information.

For more information on acceptable items, visit RecycleMore's HHW Material Database Tool. It is illegal to transfer more than 15 gallons or 125 pounds of Hazardous waste per vehicle. Find out about how to safely handle, transport and dispose of Household Hazardous Wastes.

2022 HHW Facility Holiday Closure
  1. Residential HHW
  2. Small Business HHW
  3. Large Business HHW
  4. HHW Mobile Collection
  5. Sharps and Medicines
  6. Used Motor Oil and Filters
  7. Drop Box
Richmond residents can dispose of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) conveniently and for free at the West Contra Costa County Household Hazardous Waste Facility and the El Cerrito Recycling Center.

The West Contra Costa County Household Hazardous Waste Facility in Richmond is open every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The El Cerrito Recycling Center is open on Tuesdays for Household Hazardous Waste disposal. Must bring proof of residency and drop-off items while in an enclosed vehicle. 

Residential Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Guide

West Contra Costa County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility


101 Pittsburg Avenue
Richmond, CA 94801
Open Every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Closed Noon - 12:30 pm)
(888) 412-9277
*Must have proof of residency and drop-off items while in an enclosed vehicle. 

El Cerrito Recycling Center

7501 Schmidt Lane,
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Open every Tuesday for HHW Disposal
8:00 am - 5:45 pm 
(510) 215-4350
*Must have proof of residency and drop-off items while in an enclosed vehicle.