Spring cleaning Saturday around Tahoe

If there's a worn-out, smelly couch sitting on your porch, Saturday is your chance to get rid of it.

The Clean Tahoe Program, a nonprofit organization dedicated to squashing litter bugs on the California side of South Shore, is hosting its Community Cleanup Day, when residents are encouraged to bring their unwanted collectables to South Tahoe Refuse for $5.

"This is a residential dump day," said Joann Eisenbrandt, a Clean Tahoe program assistant. "You can bring whatever you can fit into that load - old mattresses, appliances, pine needles - all for $5."

On any other day, the same load would cost $13 to dump at the transfer station.

Hazardous household materials, such as oils and paints, can be brought in but are limited to 20 gallons per household. Refrigerators and air conditioners, because they contain freon, will cost $28 to dump.

The transfer station will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Eisenbrandt advises to get there early.

"Last year we had 600 cars go through the transfer station," she said. "Make sure you're in line by 4 p.m. or you'll miss the chance to participate."

Nevada residents are also invited to bring their trash to the transfer station at 2140 Ruth Ave. in South Lake Tahoe for an additional fee of $3.

For more information on Community Cleanup Day, call the Clean Tahoe Program at (530) 544-4210.

What: Community Cleanup Day

When: Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: South Tahoe Refuse Transfer Station, 2140 Ruth Ave., South Lake Tahoe

Cost: $5 per 3/4 ton load, Nevada residents $8