Universal Wastes
Also banned from disposal are household batteries and fluorescent light bulbs, light tubes and compact bulbs. These items are considered "universal wastes" meaning these products are commonly used, but are harmful to the environment and need special handling and disposal. See below for take-back locations or bring to the Household Hazardous Waste Program above.Take-Back Locations for Batteries & Lamps (Free)
Fluorescent lamps are compact bulbs, straight, circular, spiral and u-bent tubes.
Household batteries (from small watch batteries to flashlight lantern batteries) can be taken to the following retail locations free of charge (no automotive batteries):
Lamps & Batteries:
Blossom True Value Hardware
297 W. El Camino Real (650-964-7871)
(leave with employee at register)
Orchard Supply Hardware
2555 Charleston Road (650-691-2000)
(leave at customer service desk)
Lamps only:
New Era Lighting
2243 Old Middlefield Way (650-940-1559)
Batteries only:
Wolfe Camera
1898 W. El Camino Real (650-968-5666)
