A "generator" is any facility whose act or process produces hazardous waste. In California, there are four characteristics that identify a hazardous waste:
Retail Hazardous Waste
Products that can no longer be used for their intended purpose are considered hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. For example, products that are spent (light bulbs, batteries, etc.), spilled, empty (applicable pharmacy containers), damaged or leaking are considered hazardous waste. The distinction between such products and others is to ensure that hazardous waste is separated from solid waste and are not thrown into the trash.
Waste Generator Permit Categories
Hazardous Waste Generators are permitted based on the amount of waste generated each month. Contact our department at (530)265-1222 and ask for a Hazardous Materials Inspector to get further details on the categories listed below.
Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQG) are generators that produce less than 27 gallons of liquid waste or less than 220 lbs of solid waste per month. These generators are able to participate in special disposal programs that reduce the cost of waste disposal.
Small Quantity Generators (SQG) are generators that produce more than 27 gallons and between 220-2200 lbs of solid waste per month.
Large Quantity Generators (LQG) are generators that produce more than 2,200 lbs of solid waste per month.
Other Waste Generator Requirements
Waste generators are required to properly manage waste which includes labeling, training and records management. Each permit category above has different requirements.
Universal Waste is hazardous waste that is common among multiple types of operations. Most businesses generate some form of Universal Waste. Examples include batteries, electronic waste, fluorescent bulbs, aerosol and latex paints. Management and disposal requirements for these types of waste are more lenient than typical hazardous waste.
Contact our department for more information at (530) 265-1222.