How to Recycle Electronics (E-Waste) in San Diego
In California, electronic waste (e-waste) is banned from the regular landfill — you can't toss a TV, monitor or computer in the trash. The good news is that recycling electronics in San Diego is usually free, and for a pile of gear you don't want to haul yourself, same-day pickup is easy.
What counts as e-waste?
- TVs, computer monitors and laptops
- Desktop computers, servers and networking gear
- Phones, tablets, printers and scanners
- Cables, chargers, keyboards and small electronics
- Microwaves and some small appliances
Why electronics can't go in the trash
Screens and circuit boards contain lead, mercury and other materials that leach into the environment, which is why California law (the Electronic Waste Recycling Act) bans them from the landfill. A recycling fee you already paid when you bought the device funds free take-back.
Option 1: Free e-waste recycling drop-off
Certified e-waste recyclers and periodic community collection events across San Diego accept most electronics free of charge if you drop them off yourself. Retailers like Best Buy also take back many devices. Data-bearing gear should be wiped first, though reputable recyclers offer data destruction.
Option 2: Same-day e-waste pickup
If you've got an old big-screen TV, a stack of monitors, or an office full of retired computers, hauling it yourself is a pain. CleanOut247 picks it up, does all the lifting, and delivers everything to certified e-waste recyclers so it's handled to code — no dump run, no heavy lifting.
Have a pile of old electronics? Book same-day e-waste pickup in San Diego.
(619) 999-3565Frequently asked questions
Where can I recycle electronics in San Diego?
Certified e-waste recyclers, retailer take-back programs (like Best Buy), and community collection events across San Diego accept most electronics for free if you drop them off. We also offer same-day e-waste pickup that delivers everything to certified recyclers.
Can I throw away a TV or computer in San Diego?
No. Electronics are banned from the landfill in California, so TVs, monitors and computers can't go in the trash. They must go to a certified e-waste recycler.
Is electronics recycling free in San Diego?
Usually yes — a recycling fee paid at purchase funds free e-waste drop-off at certified recyclers and retailers. Full-service pickup is paid but includes all the lifting and certified recycling.
