Bulk Item Disposal: Palo Alto vs Sunnyvale
How do bulk item disposal rules compare between Palo Alto, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Sunnyvale has fewer restrictions than Palo Alto.
Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Palo Alto residents receive two free on-call bulky item pickups per year through GreenWaste for furniture, mattresses, and appliances. Appointments must be scheduled in advance; illegal dumping is prohibited.
View full Palo Alto rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale residents receive two free on-call bulky item pickups per year through Specialty Solid Waste for furniture, appliances, and large items.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Palo Alto | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Free pickups | 2 per year per household | 2 per year |
| Booking | Schedule via GreenWaste portal | - |
| Set-out | By 6:00 AM on appointment date | - |
| Prohibited | HHW, paint, tires, e-waste, construction | - |
| HHW facility | San Antonio HHW, Palo Alto | - |
| Volume per pickup | - | Up to 5 cubic yards |
| Scheduling | - | Call SSWR (408) 565-9900 |
| Excluded items | - | E-waste, hazardous waste |
| Drop-off | - | SMaRT Station |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Palo Alto FAQ
How many free bulky pickups do I get?
Palo Alto residents on the GreenWaste service generally receive two free on-call bulky item pickups per calendar year.
What items cannot be picked up curbside?
Paint, motor oil, batteries, tires, construction debris, and electronics must go to the San Antonio Household Hazardous Waste facility or certified recyclers.
Can I just leave items at the curb?
No. Items left without a scheduled pickup are considered illegal dumping and can result in citations under the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
Sunnyvale FAQ
How many free bulk pickups do I get?
Sunnyvale residents receive two free on-call bulky item collections per calendar year.
Can I put out a TV or computer for bulk pickup?
No. Electronics must be taken to the SMaRT Station or an approved e-waste recycler.
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