Bulk Item Disposal: San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do bulk item disposal rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Sunnyvale has fewer restrictions than San Jose.
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 →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 | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Free Pickups | 2 per year for residential customers | - |
| Scheduling | Must schedule in advance via website or phone | Call SSWR (408) 565-9900 |
| 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) | - |
| Free pickups | - | 2 per year |
| Volume per pickup | - | Up to 5 cubic yards |
| Excluded items | - | E-waste, hazardous waste |
| Drop-off | - | SMaRT Station |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
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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