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A small dog on leash with its tongue out.
PET WASTE
Conserving our water resources.

Pet Waste

Be the solution and help Stop Poo-llution in San Mateo County!

be the solution - stop poo-llution from pet waste

Pets bring joy and companionship, but their waste can create environmental challenges when not managed properly. A single gram of dog waste can contain 23 million bacteria!

When pet waste is left on the ground, it can be washed into storm drains by rain or runoff, eventually making its way to streams, creeks, the San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean. While certain types of ‘poop’ can make good fertilizer, dog waste in particular does not. For most plants it is actually too acidic, due to their diets, which often causes burning and browning if left on plants and grasses for too long.

Why is it important?

person signing Scoop the Poop pledge at San Mateo County Sustainability Department water protection booth at a community event

Pet waste is a significant source of pollution that can affect both human health and the environment. According to the EPA, the bacteria found in pet waste can lead to illnesses such as salmonellosis, toxocariasis, and toxoplasmosis. These pathogens can be transmitted through contaminated soil, water, or direct contact, which creates risks to both people and wildlife, especially aquatic wildlife. Children and those with compromised immune systems playing in parks or in waterways are at greater risk.

How You Can Help

Addressing pet waste is a key step in maintaining good water quality, and everyone can participate.

pet disposal station at waterfront park location

Pick it up and bag it!

Always carry poop bags to clean up after your dog. Dispose of the bag in a proper trash receptacle—leaving bags in parks or trails is considered littering and may result in fines. Promptly picking up waste helps prevent soil and water contamination. Although plastic bags are not environmentally ideal, the pollution from untreated pet waste poses a greater environmental hazard. Landfills are designed to manage waste safely.

Take the Scoop the Poop Pledge
green waste bin with red X indicating no pet waste in green bin or compost

Do Not Compost Pet Waste!

Pet waste is not suitable for composting. It contains parasites and pathogens that can pose health risks. Stick to putting it in the trash to ensure safety.

cat in litter box

Consider All Pets!

Clean up after all household pets, including cats and other animals. Keeping our community and waterways clean is a shared responsibility.

Find a Pet Waste Station on the Coast

The Latest News & Events

Free Tire Recycling Drop-Off Event @ Pescadero High School
Apr
11
Free Tire Recycling Drop-Off Event @ Pescadero High School

The County of San Mateo Sustainability Department is hosting a free tire recycling drop-off event for San Mateo County residents. There is a limit of 9 passenger or light truck tires per vehicle, as required by state law. Tires accepted at this event must be size R19.5 or smaller, with or without rims. Please ensure the tires are deflated. Tires from commercial, auto repair, and/or salvage businesses will not be accepted.

  • Location: Pescadero High School, 360 Butano Cutoff, Pescadero
  • Date:  April 11, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Collector: San Jose Conservation Corps

Questions?

  • Call 888-442-2666

Residents must provide proof of residency in San Mateo County (e.g., driver’s license, utility bill, garbage collection bill, etc.).

For larger truck tires (tractor, truck etc.) contact the Sustainability Department at 888-442-2666 for recycling location information or visit www.recyclestuff.org.

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