Bulk Item Disposal: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do bulk item disposal rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View has fewer restrictions than San Jose.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Recology offers free on-call bulky item pickup for Mountain View residents, typically two collections per year per household. Items include mattresses, furniture, and large appliances.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose offers free bulky item pickup for residential customers through the City's waste collection program. Residents may schedule up to two free bulky item pickups per year for items such as furniture, appliances, mattresses, and large electronics. Items must be placed at the curb on the scheduled day. The City also operates the San Jose Reuse and Recycling Center for drop-off of large items, construction debris, and materials not accepted in curbside collection.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Free pickups per year | 2 per household | - |
| Items per pickup | Up to 5 | - |
| Acceptable items | Furniture, mattresses, appliances, e-waste | - |
| Not accepted | Construction debris, hazmat | - |
| Scheduling | 48+ hours advance | Must schedule in advance via website or phone |
| Free Pickups | - | 2 per year for residential customers |
| Drop-Off | - | San Jose Reuse and Recycling Center |
| Illegal Dumping | - | Fines up to $1,000-$3,000 |
| Code Section | - | SJMC §9.10.2220 (illegal dumping) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Do I have to pay for bulky pickup?
Two pickups per year are included in the rate. Additional pickups or oversized loads incur a fee. E-waste and appliances are free under state mandates.
Where do I take household hazardous waste?
The Santa Clara County Household Hazardous Waste Program runs drop-off events and appointment sites. Mountain View residents qualify for free service; visit hhw.org.
San Jose FAQ
How do I schedule a bulky item pickup in San Jose?
Schedule online at sanjoseca.gov/recycle or call 408-535-3500. Residential customers get two free bulky item pickups per year.
Where can I drop off large items?
The San Jose Reuse and Recycling Center at 1608 Las Plumas Ave accepts large items, construction debris, and materials not suitable for curbside collection.
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