Electronics Recycling in California
1974 recycling centers in 261 cities
E-Waste Recycling Laws and Programs in California
California has a longstanding electronics recycling program established by a 2003 state law – the first of its kind in the nation. Unlike most states, California's program is funded through an advanced recycling fee (ARF) paid by consumers at the time of purchase, rather than a manufacturer take-back model. Electronics recycling in California is widely accessible: consumers pay a small fee upfront that supports a statewide network of e-waste collection and recycling for devices like TVs, monitors, computers, and more. The state also bans the disposal of most electronic devices in landfills (effective since 2006), ensuring that e-waste is diverted to proper recycling facilities.
Alameda
3 recycling centers
Alamo
2 recycling centers
Alhambra
6 recycling centers
American Canyon
5 recycling centers
Anaheim
20 recycling centers
Antioch
7 recycling centers
Apple Valley
5 recycling centers
Arcadia
5 recycling centers
Auburn
3 recycling centers
Azusa
5 recycling centers
Bakersfield
33 recycling centers
Baldwin Park
6 recycling centers
Barstow
3 recycling centers
Beaumont
3 recycling centers
Belmont
3 recycling centers
Berkeley
8 recycling centers
Bishop
3 recycling centers
Bloomington
4 recycling centers
Brea
3 recycling centers
Buena Park
5 recycling centers
Burbank
6 recycling centers
Burlingame
2 recycling centers
Camarillo
3 recycling centers
Campbell
4 recycling centers
Canoga Park
8 recycling centers
Capitola
4 recycling centers
Carmichael
5 recycling centers
Carson
3 recycling centers
Chatsworth
7 recycling centers
Chico
20 recycling centers
Chino
10 recycling centers
Chowchilla
4 recycling centers
Chula Vista
25 recycling centers
Citrus Heights
7 recycling centers
City of Industry
6 recycling centers
Clearlake
6 recycling centers
Clovis
10 recycling centers
Colton
7 recycling centers
Commerce
5 recycling centers
Compton
9 recycling centers
Concord
5 recycling centers
Corona
10 recycling centers
Coronado
3 recycling centers
Costa Mesa
4 recycling centers
Covina
6 recycling centers
Crescent City
3 recycling centers
Culver City
5 recycling centers
Cupertino
5 recycling centers
Delano
5 recycling centers
Desert Hot Springs
3 recycling centers
Diamond Bar
3 recycling centers
Downey
7 recycling centers
Dublin
4 recycling centers
El Cajon
11 recycling centers
El Centro
3 recycling centers
El Monte
6 recycling centers
Elk Grove
7 recycling centers
Encinitas
4 recycling centers
Encino
3 recycling centers
Escondido
11 recycling centers
Fairfield
11 recycling centers
Folsom
4 recycling centers
Fontana
13 recycling centers
Fortuna
3 recycling centers
Fremont
14 recycling centers
Fresno
42 recycling centers
Fullerton
9 recycling centers
Garden Grove
4 recycling centers
Gardena
8 recycling centers
Gilroy
4 recycling centers
Glendale
12 recycling centers
Glendora
5 recycling centers
Goleta
3 recycling centers
Grass Valley
2 recycling centers
Half Moon Bay
3 recycling centers
Hanford
6 recycling centers
Hayward
12 recycling centers
Hemet
5 recycling centers
Hesperia
11 recycling centers
Hollister
4 recycling centers
Huntington Beach
8 recycling centers
Huntington Park
3 recycling centers
Indio
5 recycling centers
Inglewood
4 recycling centers
Ione
3 recycling centers
Irvine
15 recycling centers
Kelseyville
4 recycling centers
Kerman
3 recycling centers
La Crescenta-Montrose
4 recycling centers
La Habra
5 recycling centers
La Jolla
4 recycling centers
La Mesa
3 recycling centers
La Puente
5 recycling centers
Lafayette
2 recycling centers
Laguna Hills
4 recycling centers
Lake Elsinore
3 recycling centers
Lake Forest
4 recycling centers
Lakeport
5 recycling centers
Lakeside
3 recycling centers
Lakewood
5 recycling centers
Lamont
3 recycling centers
Lancaster
13 recycling centers
Lemon Grove
2 recycling centers
Lemoore
3 recycling centers
Lincoln
4 recycling centers
Livermore
7 recycling centers
Lodi
10 recycling centers
Long Beach
18 recycling centers
Los Angeles
118 recycling centers
Madera
5 recycling centers
Malibu
3 recycling centers
Manteca
7 recycling centers
Marina
10 recycling centers
Martinez
3 recycling centers
Marysville
5 recycling centers
Maywood
3 recycling centers
Menifee
3 recycling centers
Merced
8 recycling centers
Milpitas
4 recycling centers
Mission Viejo
4 recycling centers
Modesto
21 recycling centers
Monrovia
7 recycling centers
Montclair
3 recycling centers
Montebello
8 recycling centers
Monterey
5 recycling centers
Monterey Park
4 recycling centers
Montrose
3 recycling centers
Moreno Valley
13 recycling centers
Morgan Hill
5 recycling centers
Mountain View
3 recycling centers
Murrieta
4 recycling centers
Napa
6 recycling centers
National City
5 recycling centers
Norco
4 recycling centers
North Highlands
5 recycling centers
North Hills
4 recycling centers
North Hollywood
6 recycling centers
Northridge
5 recycling centers
Oakland
23 recycling centers
Oceanside
8 recycling centers
Ojai
3 recycling centers
Olivehurst
5 recycling centers
Ontario
16 recycling centers
Orange
7 recycling centers
Oroville
7 recycling centers
Oxnard
13 recycling centers
Pacheco
3 recycling centers
Pacoima
5 recycling centers
Palm Desert
8 recycling centers
Palm Springs
7 recycling centers
Palmdale
12 recycling centers
Panorama City
3 recycling centers
Paradise
3 recycling centers
Paramount
5 recycling centers
Pasadena
2 recycling centers
Paso Robles
7 recycling centers
Patterson
4 recycling centers
Perris
9 recycling centers
Petaluma
10 recycling centers
Pico Rivera
5 recycling centers
Pittsburg
3 recycling centers
Placentia
7 recycling centers
Placerville
3 recycling centers
Playa Del Rey
3 recycling centers
Pleasanton
3 recycling centers
Porterville
6 recycling centers
Poway
3 recycling centers
Quincy
4 recycling centers
Rancho Cordova
6 recycling centers
Rancho Cucamonga
8 recycling centers
Redding
5 recycling centers
Redlands
6 recycling centers
Redwood City
3 recycling centers
Reseda
3 recycling centers
Rialto
5 recycling centers
Richmond
12 recycling centers
Ridgecrest
3 recycling centers
Rio Linda
3 recycling centers
Riverbank
3 recycling centers
Riverside
17 recycling centers
Rohnert Park
5 recycling centers
Roseville
11 recycling centers
Sacramento
56 recycling centers
Salinas
13 recycling centers
San Bernardino
15 recycling centers
San Bruno
3 recycling centers
San Carlos
4 recycling centers
San Clemente
3 recycling centers
San Diego
61 recycling centers
San Francisco
21 recycling centers
San Jacinto
3 recycling centers
San Jose
57 recycling centers
San Leandro
5 recycling centers
San Luis Obispo
11 recycling centers
San Marcos
11 recycling centers
San Mateo
3 recycling centers
San Pedro
4 recycling centers
San Rafael
9 recycling centers
San Ramon
3 recycling centers
Santa Ana
19 recycling centers
Santa Barbara
6 recycling centers
Santa Clara
6 recycling centers
Santa Clarita
9 recycling centers
Santa Cruz
6 recycling centers
Santa Fe Springs
4 recycling centers
Santa Maria
13 recycling centers
Santa Monica
7 recycling centers
Santa Rosa
8 recycling centers
Santee
3 recycling centers
Sausalito
3 recycling centers
Signal Hill
3 recycling centers
Simi Valley
5 recycling centers
Sonoma
3 recycling centers
South El Monte
5 recycling centers
South Gate
5 recycling centers
South Lake Tahoe
4 recycling centers
South San Francisco
2 recycling centers
Spring Valley
5 recycling centers
Stanton
3 recycling centers
Stockton
22 recycling centers
Studio City
3 recycling centers
Sun Valley
21 recycling centers
Sunnyvale
4 recycling centers
Susanville
10 recycling centers
Sylmar
5 recycling centers
Tarzana
4 recycling centers
Tehachapi
4 recycling centers
Temecula
4 recycling centers
Thousand Oaks
5 recycling centers
Torrance
13 recycling centers
Tracy
6 recycling centers
Travis AFB
4 recycling centers
Truckee
4 recycling centers
Tulare
5 recycling centers
Turlock
4 recycling centers
Tustin
4 recycling centers
Twentynine Palms
4 recycling centers
Ukiah
9 recycling centers
Upland
6 recycling centers
Vacaville
5 recycling centers
Valencia
3 recycling centers
Vallejo
6 recycling centers
Van Nuys
9 recycling centers
Venice
4 recycling centers
Ventura
17 recycling centers
Victorville
12 recycling centers
Visalia
10 recycling centers
Vista
10 recycling centers
Walnut Creek
3 recycling centers
Watsonville
7 recycling centers
West Covina
5 recycling centers
West Hills
3 recycling centers
West Sacramento
8 recycling centers
Westminster
5 recycling centers
Whittier
5 recycling centers
Wilmington
6 recycling centers
Windsor
6 recycling centers
Winnetka
3 recycling centers
Woodland
7 recycling centers
Yuba City
5 recycling centers
Yucaipa
4 recycling centers
Recycling Statistics
Why Electronics Recycling Matters in California
Electronic waste represents one of the fastest-growing waste streams nationwide. California generates thousands of tons of e-waste annually. This includes computers, smartphones, televisions, and other electronic devices. Proper recycling prevents toxic materials from entering landfills.
Heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium are found in electronic devices. These substances can contaminate soil and groundwater if not handled properly. Professional recycling facilities safely extract and process these materials.
The economic impact of electronics recycling in California is significant. The industry creates jobs and generates revenue from recovered materials. Local communities benefit from reduced waste management costs. Environmental protection initiatives also receive support through responsible recycling programs.
Electronics Accepted for Recycling
Most electronics recycling centers in California accept a wide range of devices:
- • Desktop and laptop computers
- • Computer monitors and keyboards
- • Smartphones and tablets
- • Televisions and audio equipment
- • Printers and office equipment
- • Gaming consoles and accessories
- • Small household electronics
- • Cables, chargers, and adapters
Some facilities may have restrictions on certain items. CRT monitors and televisions require special handling due to lead content. Always check with your chosen recycling center about their specific acceptance policies.
State-Specific Recycling Regulations in California
Electronics recycling regulations vary by state. California may have specific requirements for manufacturers and consumers. Understanding these laws helps ensure compliance and proper disposal.
Consumer Responsibilities
- • Remove personal data before disposal
- • Use certified recycling facilities when possible
- • Separate batteries from electronic devices
- • Follow local collection guidelines
- • Keep receipts for business equipment disposal
Manufacturer Programs
- • Take-back programs for brand-specific devices
- • Trade-in credits for new purchases
- • Free recycling events and collection days
- • Mail-back programs for small electronics
- • Retail partnership programs
Important Notice
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with local authorities. Some municipalities may have additional restrictions beyond state laws. Business disposal may require special documentation or certified destruction services.
Preparing Electronics for Recycling in California
Data Security Steps
Protecting personal information is crucial before recycling electronics. Follow these essential steps:
- 1. Back up important files to cloud storage or external drives
- 2. Sign out of all accounts and applications
- 3. Perform a factory reset on the device
- 4. Remove or destroy storage devices if needed
- 5. Consider professional data destruction services
Physical Preparation
Proper preparation ensures safe transportation and processing:
- 1. Remove batteries from devices when possible
- 2. Keep cables and accessories together
- 3. Check for any removable storage media
- 4. Clean devices to remove personal items
- 5. Package securely for transport if needed
Finding Certified Recyclers in California
Choosing certified electronics recyclers ensures responsible handling of your devices. Look for facilities with proper certifications and transparent processes. Certified recyclers follow strict environmental and security standards.
Key Certifications to Look For
- • R2 (Responsible Recycling) certification
- • e-Stewards certification
- • ISO 14001 environmental management
- • NAID AAA data destruction certification
- • State-specific recycling licenses
What Certified Recyclers Provide
- • Secure data destruction services
- • Environmental compliance documentation
- • Material tracking and reporting
- • Worker safety protections
- • Transparent downstream processing
Electronics Recycling Process
Understanding the recycling process helps ensure your electronics are handled properly. Professional facilities follow systematic procedures to maximize material recovery and minimize environmental impact.
Collection and Intake
Electronics are collected from drop-off locations, pickup services, and collection events. Items are sorted by type and condition. Working devices may be evaluated for refurbishment or reuse programs.
Data Destruction
All storage devices undergo secure data destruction. Hard drives are wiped using DOD-approved methods or physically destroyed. Certificates of destruction are provided for compliance purposes.
Disassembly and Sorting
Devices are carefully disassembled by trained technicians. Components are separated by material type. Hazardous materials are identified and segregated for special handling.
Material Processing
Separated materials undergo processing to extract valuable resources. Metals are sorted and prepared for refining. Plastics are cleaned and prepared for recycling into new products.
Recovery and Reuse
Recovered materials are sold to manufacturers for use in new products. This closes the recycling loop and reduces demand for virgin materials. Proper documentation tracks all materials.
Environmental Benefits of Electronics Recycling
Proper electronics recycling in California provides significant environmental benefits. These advantages extend beyond waste diversion to include resource conservation and pollution prevention.
Resource Conservation
- • Reduces mining for new materials
- • Conserves precious metals and rare earth elements
- • Saves energy compared to virgin material production
- • Preserves natural resources for future generations
Pollution Prevention
- • Prevents toxic materials from entering landfills
- • Protects soil and groundwater from contamination
- • Reduces air pollution from incineration
- • Minimizes greenhouse gas emissions
Economic Impact
- • Creates jobs in the recycling industry
- • Generates revenue from recovered materials
- • Reduces waste management costs
- • Supports local green economy initiatives
Getting Started with Electronics Recycling in California
Taking the first step toward responsible electronics recycling is easier than you might think. Start by identifying the electronics you no longer need. Check if any devices still have value for trade-in programs. For non-functional items, locate a certified recycling facility near you.
Tips for Successful Electronics Recycling
- • Research recycler certifications before visiting
- • Prepare devices by removing personal data
- • Group similar devices together for efficiency
- • Ask about data destruction certificates
- • Inquire about pickup services for large items
- • Check for any fees before dropping off items
- • Consider manufacturer take-back programs
- • Schedule visits during facility operating hours
Business Electronics Recycling in California
Businesses in California face unique challenges when disposing of electronic equipment. Corporate electronics often contain sensitive data requiring specialized handling. Large volumes may need scheduled pickup services. Compliance documentation becomes essential for audit purposes.
IT Asset Disposal
- • Servers and networking equipment
- • Desktop and laptop computers
- • Monitors and peripherals
- • Storage devices and drives
- • Telecommunications equipment
Office Equipment
- • Printers and copiers
- • Fax machines and scanners
- • Phone systems
- • Point-of-sale terminals
- • Security equipment
Specialized Devices
- • Medical electronics
- • Laboratory equipment
- • Industrial controllers
- • Audio/visual systems
- • Testing instruments
Business Recycling Benefits
Professional electronics recycling offers significant advantages for businesses. These include liability protection and compliance assurance. Environmental responsibility enhances corporate image. Asset recovery can offset disposal costs.
- • Secure data destruction documentation
- • Environmental compliance certificates
- • Liability protection and insurance
- • Asset tracking and reporting
- • Potential tax benefits for responsible disposal
- • Enhanced corporate sustainability profile
- • Reduced storage and management costs
- • Professional pickup and handling services
Common Electronics Recycling Myths
Several misconceptions exist about electronics recycling. Understanding the facts helps make informed decisions. Proper information leads to better recycling outcomes for everyone.
Myth: All electronics end up in landfills anyway
Certified recyclers follow strict material tracking requirements. Most components are successfully recovered and reused. Metals, plastics, and rare earth elements find new life in manufacturing. Only non-recoverable materials require safe disposal.
Myth: Data wiping is unnecessary if the device is broken
Storage devices can often be recovered even when computers appear non-functional. Professional data recovery tools can access information from damaged drives. Secure data destruction should always be performed regardless of device condition.
Myth: Electronics recycling is too expensive for individuals
Many recycling options are available at no cost to consumers. Manufacturer take-back programs often provide free services. Municipal collection events frequently offer free disposal. Even paid services often cost less than other disposal methods.
Myth: Newer electronics don't need special recycling
Modern devices often contain more complex materials than older electronics. Lithium batteries require specialized handling procedures. Rare earth elements in newer devices are particularly valuable for recovery. Advanced recycling techniques are needed for optimal processing.