Materials Requiring Special Handling

There are many items that can be recycled but do not belong in your blue recycling bin. We’ve compiled some resources below, but please visit WasteFreeSD.org for recycling locations and take back centers near you.

Household Hazardous Waste
Household hazardous waste (HHW) is the unused or leftover portion of any hazardous chemicals or materials. These include cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals as well as universal and electronic waste such as lightbulbs and batteries. Please visit SDHHW.org for HHW identification resources and disposal options. 

Mattress Recycling
The California Used Mattress Recovery and Recycling Act established an industry-run, statewide program to increase the recovery and recycling of mattresses at their end-of-use. To find a used mattress recycler, renovator, or drop-off location near you visit Bye Bye Mattress. 

Paint Recycling
PaintCare is a nonprofit organization established by the American Coatings Association to implement a statewide paint recycling program. Find a participating retail take back center here.

Carpet Recycling
The California America Recovery Effort (CARE) serves as the stewardship organization administering the California Carpet Stewardship Program designed to increase the recovery and recycling of carpet at their end-of-use. Find a CARE Drop-off Location here. 

Have a recycling question? Email Recycle@sdcounty.ca.gov or call: