Treated Wood Special Instructions Treated wood cannot go in any of your carts or bins and is NOT accepted at the Santa Clara County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility. Examples of treated wood include exterior applications where the wood will be in direct contact with soil or water, such as fencing and decking posts. Some City-approved debris box companies will accept loads of treated wood. Residents are advised to call and inquire with the hauler regarding the availability of such service. You can also self-haul to an authorized landfill. Residents are advised to call ahead for specific requirements. California’s DTSC has a new treated wood fact sheet with information on proper storage and hauling procedures. Never Burn Treated Wood Chemicals such as creosote are used when treating wood, which creates toxic ash and emissions when burned. These particles lodge in soil and groundwater and take many years to break down, so never burn wood if you think it has been treated. Take Care With Sawdust Avoid breathing in sawdust from treated wood, and do not add it to compost or scatter on the ground. Ways to Reduce Choose a Different Wood Redwood and cedar are both naturally pest-resistant. Suppliers are also starting to offer more non-toxic treated wood options. Ways to Reuse Repurpose for New Project Certain types of wood products can be reused in a variety of ways. Find out how to repurpose your wood product.
