Santa Cruz County, CA Trash & Recycling: Bulk Item Disposal (2026)

Residents of unincorporated Santa Cruz County have several options for disposing of bulky and large-volume items beyond their weekly carts. Through the County's franchised hauler, GreenWaste Recovery, single-family customers may request up to three bulky-item reuse collections per year at no extra charge. Each collection can include up to roughly two cubic yards of reusable materials, five e-Waste items, and three appliances or bulky items; additional collections beyond the included three incur fees. For larger amounts, residents can self-haul directly to County facilities. The Buena Vista Landfill (1231 Buena Vista Dr., Watsonville) accepts Class III non-hazardous residential, commercial, and industrial waste, and the Ben Lomond Transfer Station (9835 Newell Creek Rd.) accepts the same and transfers material to Buena Vista. Both operate roughly Monday through Saturday, with disposal charged by the rate schedule. Household hazardous waste, such as paint, chemicals, and batteries, is not accepted in carts or as bulky items and must be brought to the designated HHW drop-off at these sites on specified days (identification required). For construction debris, cleanouts, or other large projects, GreenWaste offers debris-box (roll-off) rentals in 10-, 20-, 30-, and 40-cubic-yard sizes. When self-hauling, the County's 'Cover Your Load' requirement applies so loose materials do not escape during transport. Because mandatory diversion applies, recyclables and organics should be separated rather than landfilled.