I am planning on removing the asbestos-containing popcorn ceiling from three small closets (12 sq ft each) in my home. (The rest has been professionally removed.) I have extensively read about the proper procedures and, as a handyman, am prepared to do so safely. My 2 questions are:
1. Is it legal for a homeowner in CA to do this?
2. What is the process for a homeowner to properly dispose of a small amount of asbestos in San Diego? My internet searches have been fruitless on this point. I suspect that the city government does not want to disseminate this information. All I have found is instructions for professionals, describing a process which is impossibly cumbersome for a private homeowner. And no information on the cost.

 

My guess is that the cost of dumping the asbestos is probably close to having it done by a contractor. According to the site below, current federal regulations make it impossible for a home owner to do it himself. I know that they want to sell their services but it might be better not to do it yourself. I had some asbestos removed from some pipes about 5 years ago & it only cost about $300 for 60 feet of pipe.

Asbestos, the dangers, the myths and the realities

 

I've done a fair bit of reading on this as well. CA regs seem to be a bit more strict than Federal. By Federal regs, you can do it yourself but you can't hire anyone to help you. As far as disposal goes, it has to go to a Class 1 landfill that is certified to take asbestos. You also have to label the waste as hazmat. In the LA area, you have to notify the local air district and get a permit. I don't know if the SDAPCD has the same requirement.
It may be possible that you can't get the permits you need in your area without some certification training.

 

Welcome to the forums!

Almost certainly not. It was illegal 30 years ago in Tennessee.

You can't find that information because it doesn't exist. The city and the state aren't "hiding" it from you, they're refusing to create it. For one thing, they can't afford the coverage for the liability they would assume if they permitted homeowners to do this work themselves.

 

Here is the web page from the SDAPCD on asbestos removal. Don't Mess With Asbestos - San Diego County

Because you are the home owner and doing the work alone, you are exempt from licensing requirements. However, you are not exempt from the disposal requirements.