California residents may no longer put household batteries, fluorescent tubes, and other electronic items into their garbage carts. So-called "universal waste" must be taken to a household hazardous waste collection facility or a recycling facility.

Universal wastes include:

• Common batteries
• Fluorescent tubes, bulbs and lamps
• Thermostats
• Electrical switches and relays
• Pilot light sensors
• TVs, computer monitors, cell phones, telephones, radios and microwave ovens
• Gauges with mercury, such as barometers and blood pressure devices
• Stoves, space heaters, iron
• Greeting cards that play music when opened
• Athletic shoes with flashing lights in the soles

The most affordable and convenient way for Union City residents to dispose of these wastes is to take them to an Alameda County Household Hazardous Waste drop-off facility.

Hayward Drop-Off Center
2091 West Winton Avenue
Hayward, CA
(800) 606-6606 or (510) 670-6460
Open only on certain Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm
(Please call to confirm they are open)

TVs, computer monitors, cell phones, telephones, and radios can be dropped off at:

Tri-CED Community Recycling
33377 Western Avenue
Union City, CA
(510) 429-8030
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30am to 4:30pm

 

For more information on Universal Waste, click on the following links.

California Department of Toxic Substance Control

Universal Waste Questions and Answers