Motor Oil & Automotive Fluids
Disposal Rules
Motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and antifreeze are hazardous waste and strictly prohibited from dumpsters. A single quart of oil can contaminate 250,000 gallons of water.
Pro Tip
Store used oil in its original container or any sealed plastic jug. Never mix different automotive fluids together.
What to Do Instead
Auto parts stores like AutoZone and O'Reilly accept used motor oil for free. Many gas stations also accept it.
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Paint (Latex & Oil-Based)
ProhibitedLiquid paint is prohibited from dumpsters. Oil-based paint is classified as hazardous waste. Latex paint must be dried out before disposal. Never pour paint down drains or into dumpsters in liquid form.
Batteries
ProhibitedBatteries of all types — alkaline, lithium-ion, lead-acid, and rechargeable — are prohibited from dumpsters. They can cause fires, leak acid, and contaminate landfills. Lithium-ion batteries are especially dangerous.
Tires
ProhibitedTires are universally prohibited from dumpsters and landfills in most states. They trap methane gas, breed mosquitoes, and are nearly impossible to compact. Separate disposal is required by law.
Propane Tanks
ProhibitedPropane tanks are prohibited from dumpsters due to explosion risk. Even "empty" tanks contain residual gas. This includes small camping canisters and full-size grill tanks.