Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

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

Few Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: Santa Clara County Bulky Item Collection →

Recently verified

Key Facts

Free pickups: 2-3 per year included
Accepts: Furniture, mattresses, small appliances
Excludes: Tires, hazardous, construction debris
Scheduling: 48 hrs advance via hauler

City-specific rules exist: Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Palo Alto, and San Jose have their own bulk item disposal rules that differ from Santa Clara County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Santa Clara County residents get 2-3 free bulky item pickups per year through their hauler for mattresses, furniture, appliances, and large items.

Full Breakdown

Unincorporated Santa Clara County residents are entitled to 2-3 free on-call bulky item pickups per calendar year through their contracted hauler (Recology, GreenWaste, or Mission Trail Waste). Acceptable bulky items include mattresses, box springs, couches, chairs, tables, dressers, small appliances, and bundled yard waste beyond cart capacity. Major appliances (refrigerators, freezers, AC units) containing refrigerant must be scheduled separately so refrigerant can be reclaimed under federal EPA rules. Electronic waste (TVs, computers, monitors) is banned from landfill and must go to an e-waste event or HHW facility. Construction debris, hazardous materials, tires, and automotive fluids are not eligible for bulky pickup. Residents schedule pickups online or by phone at least 48 hours in advance. Items must be placed curbside by 6 AM on the scheduled day but not more than 24 hours before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a couch out without scheduling?

No. Unscheduled bulky items left at the curb are illegal dumping and subject to citation. Always call your hauler first to schedule a pickup.

Where do I take a refrigerator?

Schedule an appliance pickup with your hauler, or drop off at the county transfer station. Refrigerant must be legally recovered before the appliance can be scrapped.

How does Santa Clara County compare?

See how Santa Clara County's bulk item disposal rules stack up against other locations.

Compare to Another Location View California Overview

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related Santa Clara County Ordinances

Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours

Fence Regulations: Height Limits

Fire Regulations: Fireworks

Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules

Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes

Accessory Structures: Shed Rules

More Trash & Recycling in Santa Clara County

Bulk Item Disposal in Other Cities

How does Santa Clara County compare?

See something wrong?