Junk Removal in California

Before you toss

California disposal laws

Mattresses

California runs a state-funded mattress recycling program through the Mattress Recycling Council ("Bye Bye Mattress"). A recycling fee is collected at purchase, and residents can drop off used mattresses and box springs for free at participating collection sites and events. Illegal dumping is prohibited.

E-waste

California has an electronics-recycling law: covered electronics such as TVs, computers, monitors, and laptops are restricted or banned from landfill disposal and must be recycled at an approved collection site. Manufacturer take-back programs and retailer drop-off (for example at Best Buy or Staples) are commonly available, often at no charge. Do not put covered electronics in regular trash.

Tires

California regulates scrap tires as a special waste. Tire retailers are generally required to accept your old tires when you buy new ones, and a per-tire disposal fee (commonly $1–$5) helps fund cleanup of illegal tire piles. Whole tires are typically banned from landfills; take extras to a tire retailer, an authorized scrap-tire hauler, or a household collection event. Illegal tire dumping carries fines.

Paint

California participates in the PaintCare product-stewardship program: leftover architectural paint, stain, and varnish can be dropped off for free at participating retailers and collection sites. Dried-out latex paint can go in the trash in many areas, but oil-based paint is hazardous waste — use PaintCare or a household hazardous waste site.

Source: editorial, verify before citing · last verified 2026-01

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