Vallejo Hosts 'Free Dump Day' for Responsible Disposal

City partners with Recology to provide residents a convenient way to get rid of bulky and hard-to-dispose items.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:19pm

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A blurred, atmospheric photograph of a cluttered garage interior, with various household items and discarded objects visible through the soft, warm light, conceptually representing the need to responsibly dispose of unwanted items.The 'Free Dump Day' event in Vallejo provides residents with a convenient and eco-friendly way to clear out unwanted household items and reduce illegal dumping in the community.Vallejo Today

Vallejo residents will have the opportunity to responsibly dispose of unwanted household items, including appliances, electronics, furniture, and yard waste, during the city's upcoming 'Free Dump Day' event. Hosted by the city in partnership with Recology Vallejo, the event aims to reduce illegal dumping and promote community cleanliness.

Why it matters

Illegal dumping has become a persistent problem in Vallejo, leaving neighborhoods and lots littered with trash, furniture, and construction debris. The 'Free Dump Day' event provides a convenient and environmentally responsible way for residents to clear out items that cannot be accommodated through regular curbside waste services.

The details

The 'Free Dump Day' event will take place on Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon at 100 Solano Avenue. Vallejo residents can drop off a variety of items, including appliances, electronic waste, furniture, garbage, mattresses, metal objects, tires (limited to 9), and yard waste. Prohibited items include chemicals, compressed air, construction debris, hazardous waste, pressure-treated wood, and any sharps or medical waste. Participants will need to provide proof of Vallejo residency, either with a driver's license or a Recology bill, upon arrival.

  • The 'Free Dump Day' event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • The event will run from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The players

Recology Vallejo

A waste management company that is partnering with the city of Vallejo to host the 'Free Dump Day' event.

Derek Nelson

The General Manager of Recology Vallejo.

Urban Compassion Project

An Oakland-based nonprofit that has helped clear illegal dumping at the decommissioned U.S. Army Reserve Center in Vallejo.

Vincent Williams

The Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Urban Compassion Project.

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What they’re saying

“At past one-day events, residents have dropped off more than 150 tons of debris. Our customers love these events.”

— Derek Nelson, Recology Vallejo General Manager

“We suspect that much of the illegal dumping is done by unlicensed haulers or individuals from other communities.”

— Derek Nelson, Recology Vallejo General Manager

“Our goal is to do all we can to help keep Vallejo clean for everyone. We can all help reduce waste by making thoughtful purchasing decisions and considering reuse and donation options.”

— Derek Nelson, Recology Vallejo General Manager

What’s next

Vallejo residents are encouraged to take advantage of the 'Free Dump Day' event to safely and responsibly dispose of unwanted items and help reduce illegal dumping in the city.

The takeaway

The 'Free Dump Day' event in Vallejo is a community-driven initiative to address the persistent problem of illegal dumping, providing residents with a convenient and environmentally responsible way to dispose of bulky and hard-to-recycle items. This event highlights the city's commitment to maintaining a clean and sustainable environment for its residents.