Household hazardous waste
Paint, solvents, motor oil, antifreeze, pesticides, pool chemicals and cleaning chemicals are classified as household hazardous waste in California and cannot go into a general disposal load.
Orange County operates household hazardous waste collection centers that accept these items free of charge from county residents. Check current hours and accepted items with the county before you drive over.
Asbestos and suspect building materials
Popcorn ceilings, old vinyl flooring and duct wrap in pre-1980s homes may contain asbestos. Those materials require a licensed abatement contractor — no junk hauler can legally remove them, and disturbing them makes the problem worse.
Other restricted items
- Propane tanks and pressurized cylinders
- Ammunition, flares and explosives
- Medical and biohazard waste
- Fuel, batteries in bulk, and leaking containers
Things people assume we can't take — but we can
- Mattresses and box springs (a state recycling fee applies)
- Refrigerators and freezers (refrigerant is recovered at a certified facility)
- TVs, monitors and e-waste (routed to an e-waste handler)
- Tires, within limits, and most appliances
Not sure about your item?
Text a photo to (949) 848-5281. If we cannot take it, we will tell you exactly who can — that answer is free either way.