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Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program
Small Business that generate less than 100 kilograms (27 gallons or 220 pounds) of waste per month may be eligible to participate in the Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) Program. The VSQG Program is designed to provide an inexpensive hazardous waste disposal option to eligible businesses, non-profits, and other government agencies. The Program operates by appointment only.
The fees for participating in the program cover the cost of transportation and disposal only. These transportation and disposal costs are based on the County's contracts with our commercial hazardous waste management companies. The fees to the small business are pro-rated on a per-gallon basis, and do not include other related costs that the County may incur. For the eligible VSQG, these costs are usually affordable and much lower than contracting with a commercial hazardous waste management firm.
- Are You a VSQG?
- Who May Participate?
- What is the Cost for Wastes Accepted?
- Unacceptable Wastes
- Making an Appointment
- Legal Requirements
- Who to Contact for More Information?
- Don't qualify as a VSQG?
- Best Management Practices for Business
A Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) is any business that generates less than 100 kilograms (about 220 pounds or 27 gallons) of hazardous waste per month. Typical VSQG businesses include painters, print shops, carpenters, property managers, and many others.
Some businesses do not generate waste on a regular basis, but do have paint or other wastes lying around. you may never have thought of your business as a "waste generator" before, but even if you want to "clean up" the office, you may have generated some hazardous waste. Such businesses may therefore be considered a VSQG.
Only businesses operating within San Mateo County, that qualify as a VSQG, may participate in the VSQG collection events. Other businesses that generate more than 100 kilograms of hazardous waste per month cannot participate. If you fall into this group, contact an Inspector in the Hazardous Waste Program at (650) 372-6200.
What is the Cost for Wastes Accepted?
The cost of disposing of hazardous waste depends on the type and amount of the waste. Charges for disposal range from $1.25 to $22.00 per gallon for most waste types. The fees charged are pro-rated on a per-gallon basis, and do not include other related costs that the County may incur. For the most part, these fees will be considerably lower than that of a licensed commercial hazardous waste hauler.
Wastes accepted and associated costs are listed in the San Mateo County VSQG Rate Schedule. Please note that the container size of the waste must not be larger than 5-gallons total.
Unacceptable Wastes
Waste in a container that is larger than 5-gallons in size, maximum, is not accepted. The following list of wastes that are not accepted by the program:
- Radioactive Wastes
- Electronic Wastes and Appliances
- Compressed gas Cylinders (except propane)
- Explosives and Ammunition
- Medical/Biological Wastes
- Sharps & Needles
- Tires
- Asbestos
For a listing of commercial haulers and disposal facilities, go to RecycleWorks - Business or 1-800-CleanUp or call our office at (650) 372-6200.
The VSQG Collection Events are held at our Tower Road collection site and are by appointment only. Appointments are on the first and third Wednesday of the month, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
To make an appointment, follow these steps:
- See if your business requires an EPA ID Number from the DTSC by reviewing their Fact Sheet; if so, get one.
- Make a list of the wastes you need to dispose of. Please include what the waste is, the container size, and how much you have, and also include what appointment day and time you would like:
For example: "I need to dispose of Used Paint Thinner. There are 4 containers that are 5-gallons in size, and each one is full. The total amount of waste is 20 gallons. I would like an appointment on the first Wednesday of next month, December 4, 2002, at 2:00 p.m."
- Have your EPA ID number and waste inventory list ready and call toll free 1-800-207-8222 (ask for San Mateo County Customer Service Representative); email cesqgsanmateo@pscnow.com or fax 1-707-748-3074.
- We will estimate your cost of disposal and set the appointment for you. If your desired appointment day and time is not available, we contact you for other available times.
- Program Staff will provide you with the disposal costs and the information for your appointment, including driving directions to the collection location.
- Then bring your waste in at your appointed day and time with payment for the costs!
- We will issue you a receipt for the disposal costs.
If your business qualifies as a VSQG, certain legal requirements will apply to your business, including hazardous waste storage amounts, transportation limits, and State EPA Identification numbers. Please contact an Inspector in the Hazardous waste Program at (650) 372-6200 for these and other legal requirements.
Who to Contact for More Information?
If you have any questions or need further information please contact our office at (650) 372-6200.
Don't Qualify as a VSQG?
If your business generates more than 100 kilograms (27 gallons or 220 pounds) of hazardous waste, please find a certified hauler to properly dispose of your waste: