Wood (Pressure-treated)

Treated wood is banned from disposal in the garbage.

Treated wood refers to dimensional lumber treated with chemicals that protect wood from rotting due to insects and microbial agents.

Note: The California statute (HSC § 25150.7) and regulations (22 CCR § 67386.1 et seq.) that allow treated wood waste to be handled with alternative management standards (i.e. regular landfills) are due to expire after December 31, 2020. After that date, all hazardous treated wood waste (not exempted by HSC § 25143.1.5 as utility generated) managed in California will have to be stored and manifested as hazardous waste and transported to Class I hazardous waste landfills for disposal. For more information about storage, transportation, and documentation of treated wood waste, visit the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) website at https://dtsc.ca.gov/toxics-in-products/treated-wood-waste/ or view the fact sheet.

Treated wood is not accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility and related programs. In addition, starting January 1, 2021, treated wood is not accepted at County Refuse Disposal Sites. Disposal options will be updated and listed below as the situation progresses.

Examples:

CCA (Chromated copper arsenate) Common uses: Sill plates • Trusses • Joists

Creosote Common uses: Railroad ties

Pentachlorophenol Common uses: Phone poles • Some fence posts

Copper based such as alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) and copper boron azole (CBA) Common uses: Decking • Landscape timbers

Borates Common uses: Sill plates • Trusses • Joists