Hazardous Waste Management

The Environmental Management Department (EMD) regulates hazardous waste generation. Hazardous waste is defined in the California Code of Regulations 22 CCR 66261.3. In California, there are four characteristics that identify a hazardous waste: 

  1. Ignitable
  2. Reactive
  3. Corrosive
  4. Toxic

In addition to the four characteristics, if a waste is listed in the State and/or Federal regulations, then it is also considered a hazardous waste.

Looking for Household Hazardous Waste disposal? Please visit our Household Hazardous Waste Disposal information page.

 

How to Obtain a Permit

Permits for all CUPA regulatory programs are obtained by registering with EMD and paying an annual permit fee. EMD has staff available to conduct facility walkthroughs to determine a facility's need for permits to ensure proper program categorization. For more information or to schedule a facility walkthrough, please contact EMD at (916) 875-8550.

 

Program Overview

Environmental Management staff:

  • Inspect businesses for compliance with the Hazardous Waste Control Act
  • Verify Hazardous Waste accumulation, labeling, container and tank management standards, and waste generator status
  • Respond to complaints of illegal disposal of hazardous waste
  • Issue permits and inspects businesses that treat hazardous waste pursuant to permit by rule, conditional authorization, or conditional
  • Exemption laws and regulations 

 

Program Assistance

 

Resources/Information

Organizations