The CUPA regulates hazardous waste generation. Hazardous waste is defined in the California Code of Regulations 22 CCR 66261.3. In California, there are four characteristics that identify a hazardous waste: 

  • Ignitable
  • Reactive
  • Corrosive
  • Toxic

In addition to the four characteristics, if a waste is listed in the State and/or Federal regulations, then it is also considered a hazardous waste.

Program Overview

In conjunction with the Hazardous Materials Business Plan Program, CUPA staff:

  • Inspect businesses for compliance with the Hazardous Waste Control Act
  • Verify hazardous waste accumulation, labeling, container and tank management standards, and waste generator status
  • Respond to complaints of illegal disposal of hazardous waste
  • Issue permits and inspects businesses that treat hazardous waste pursuant to permit by rule, conditional authorization, or conditional exemption laws and regulations

Hazardous Waste Generator

Hazardous Waste Generator Details

Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG)

CESQG: All hazardous waste must be disposed of within 180 days of accumulating 27 gallons/100kg.

CESQG is defined as generating less than 100 kg waste per month (generally <27 gallons per month.)

Small Quantity Generator (SQG)

SQG: All hazardous waste must be disposed of within 180 days from first day of accumulation.

SQG is defined as generating more than 100 kg and less than 1,000 kg of waste per month (generally 27 gallons or more up to 270 gallons per month.)

Large Quantity Generator (LQG)

LQG: All hazardous waste must be disposed of within 90 days from first day of accumulation. (Note: If your facility falls into a LQG category and you have hazardous waste tanks, you must complete a hazardous waste tank assessment per Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations.)

LQG is defined as generating 1000 kg or more waste per month (generally 270 gallons or greater per month.)

Additional information on hazardous waste disposal and management is available from Department of Toxic Substances Control at www.dtsc.ca.gov.

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, retail products that are returned, 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.

Universal Waste

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.