Welcome to Butte County's Dumping & Waste Disposal Regulations!

All citizens must protect the environment and public health, and how waste is disposed of plays a vital role in achieving this goal. In this guide, citizens will find important information on the regulations and guidelines for waste disposal in Butte County.

It provides information on how to properly dispose of different types of waste, how to handle hazardous materials safely, and how to identify and report illegal dumping. Everyone is encouraged to take the time to learn about the waste disposal regulations and to help keep Butte County clean and healthy.

Butte County's Garbage Disposal & Dumping Regulations

The Butte County Code of Ordinances outlines garbage disposal and dumping regulations in the area. According to Chapter 49 of the code, it is illegal to dispose of solid waste in any manner that the Butte County Health Department does not approve. This includes dumping in any public or private place or within the limits of any incorporated town.

The code outlines specific regulations for the disposal of hazardous waste. Hazardous waste includes all toxic, corrosive, ignitable, or explosive materials, as defined by the Butte County Health Department. Hazardous waste must be disposed of at a designated facility and managed under the regulations of the Butte County Health Department and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control.

The code regulates the disposal of solid waste. This involves any refuse, rubbish, or garbage generated by residential, commercial, or industrial sources. All solid waste must be disposed of under the Butte County Health Department's regulations and taken to a designated disposal facility for proper disposal.

The code also outlines that in Butte County, individuals disposing of yard waste, such as grass clippings, leaves, and other organic materials, must adhere to regulations by the Health Department. All yard waste must be taken to a proper disposal facility approved by the Health Department.

It is illegal for any person or entity to transport or store solid or hazardous waste in a way that creates a nuisance or causes a public health hazard.

Each person or entity shall operate or maintain a solid waste or hazardous waste disposal facility with a valid permit from the Butte County Health Department. Any person or entity violating these regulations can be subject to civil or criminal penalties.

What Items are Considered Hazardous Waste in Butte County?

Fluorescent bulbs and tubes: Contain mercury, a toxic metal that is dangerous to human health and the environment. Inhaling mercury can lead to health problems such as respiratory issues, neurological issues, and developmental problems.
Automotive products: Motor oil and antifreeze contain hazardous chemicals. If not properly managed and disposed of, they can contaminate soil and water, destroying habitats and ecosystems.
Electronics: Computers, televisions, and cell phones contain toxic chemicals such as lead and cadmium that can cause serious health issues and environmental contamination if not properly recycled or disposed of. Lead is a neurotoxin that causes developmental and behavioral problems in children and other neurological problems. Cadmium is a carcinogen that can cause lung cancer and kidney disease.
Paints and solvents: Paints, varnishes, and solvents contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be toxic when inhaled or absorbed through the skin. VOCs can also pollute the air and water.
Household cleaners: Cleaners such as bleach and ammonia can contain corrosive, caustic, and toxic chemicals that can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation if poorly disposed of.
Batteries: Contain heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, which can be toxic if not properly recycled or disposed of.
Pool chemicals: Mainly include corrosive chlorine. If chlorine is not stored correctly, the reaction can release toxic gases and other harmful substances into the air. It can also contaminate soils and groundwater, leading to potential health risks.
Propane tanks: If not properly disposed of, propane tanks leak flammable gas and cause fires or explosions. To safely dispose of a propane tank, it should be taken to a hazardous waste disposal facility. It should not be punctured, burned, or otherwise damaged, as this could cause a dangerous release of flammable gas.

Butte County's Public Garbage Collection Services

Butte County provides curbside collection for residential customers on a bi-weekly basis. Customers are asked to place garbage containers at the curb before 6 a.m. on their scheduled collection day. Containers are recommended so that the garbage truck can access them with ease. Bulky item pickup is available for items too large to fit in a garbage container. This service must be requested in advance, and customers are responsible for loading and unloading the items.

Yard waste collection and disposal are also available in Butte County. Brush and leaves must be placed in separate containers and at the curb on the scheduled collection day. Customers are responsible for cutting down branches and loading the containers.

Recycling services are provided for all residential customers, which is done weekly. The collection includes paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, and aluminum. Fees for commercial services vary depending on the size and frequency of collection.

Butte County has established dumping guidelines to ensure that all waste is disposed of properly. Dumping in public areas, streets, and waterways is prohibited. The transportation and disposal of hazardous materials are not allowed.

When You Should Hire a Local Junk Removal Business

If you have items too large for regular garbage collection services or hazardous materials that need to be disposed of, a local junk removal business can help. They provide disposal and recycling services for these items and adhere to Butte County regulations. The company should be insured and bonded to ensure you are protected in case of any accidents or injuries during removal.

Many companies offer same-day service, meaning that you don't have to wait days or weeks to have the items removed. Some companies will even come to your home or business to pick up the items, saving you time and energy.

Hiring a local junk removal business is also cost-effective. Most companies offer competitive rates and may even offer discounts for large jobs or repeat customers.

Conclusion

To keep Butte County clean and healthy, citizens should be aware of local waste disposal and dumping regulations. When necessary, hiring a local junk removal business can help ensure that waste is disposed of safely and responsibly, and less costly.