Apply to generate or treat medical waste

Register your business if you generate, treat, or transport medical waste.

What to do

Medical waste can cause disease if it is mismanaged. It is the law and your responsibility as a business to safely manage medical waste. You need a special permit depending on the size and volume of your waste. Learn more about identifying and managing medical waste.

1. Contact us

To get a permit, call us first.

We will ask you questions to determine your permit type and might inspect your site, too.

Environmental Health main line

Hazardous Materials and Waste

After we determine your permit type, you will get a facility ID number. We'll also send you a medical waste application.

2. Complete your application

Once you get your application, fill it out as directed and return it within 45 days.

You might be charged extra if your form is late.

Keep a copy for your records.

Environmental Health

Attention: Hazardous Materials and Waste
49 South Van Ness Avenue
Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103

3. Pay the fee

Write a check, cashier’s check, or money order to “San Francisco Department of Public Health”. Check the fee schedule for the exact amount. Mail the fee to:

Environmental Health

Attention: Hazardous Materials and Waste
49 South Van Ness Avenue
Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103

4. Renew your permit

Some permits need to be renewed. You'll get a renewal packet 45 days before your permit expires.

Check that the information is correct and make any changes. You'll pay a fee as noted. If your business has changed, let us know below.

Special cases

If you no longer generate medical waste

If you no longer generate medical waste

If your business has changed and you think you no longer generate medical waste, fill out the:

Medical Waste Diclosure Form

Return it to:

San Francisco Department of Public Health
Environmental Health Branch
Attention: Hazardous Materials and Waste
49 South Van Ness Avenue, Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103

We will review your form and an inspector will visit your business to verify the information.

Get help

Phone

Environmental Health main line

Ask for Hazardous Materials and Waste.

Last updated July 23, 2024