How to get rid of paint

Fact-checked · Sourced · Dated Last verified Sources

The answer

Leftover paint shouldn't go in the trash wet. In PaintCare states, drop it off free at a PaintCare site; elsewhere, use your city's household hazardous waste drop-off.[8]

Independent guide, not a government website. Confirm with your city or the linked official source before acting; rules and fees change.

📍 Find a drop-off near you

Choose your state

Your choice is saved on this device only. No cookies, no tracking, no location detection.

All states and DC

FREE City, county & program options

What to do, step by step

  1. PaintCare runs paint recycling programs in states with paint stewardship laws, on behalf of paint companies.[1]
  2. PaintCare currently operates programs in twelve states and the District of Columbia.[2]
  3. There is no charge for dropping off paint at a PaintCare drop-off site.[3]
  4. The PaintCare fee is added to the purchase price of new paint. It is not a deposit, so you don't get it back when you drop off paint.[3]
  5. PaintCare will pick up if you have 100+ gallons of paint.[1]
  6. EPA lists paints, cleaners, oils, batteries and pesticides as products that can contain hazardous ingredients.[4]

City rules we've verified

CityCity rule
New York CitySpecial Waste Drop-Off sites take paint, up to five gallons per visit.[5]
New York CityOil-based paint goes to a SAFE Disposal Event, not a Special Waste Site; latex paint is accepted at both.[5]
AustinUse of the Recycle and Reuse Center is free for Austin and Travis County residents; its reblended paint is free with an appointment.[7]
HoustonEnvironmental Service Centers take latex and oil-based paints, 25 gallons maximum.[6]

HHW drop-off sites by cityCollection eventsAll hazardous items

FAQ

Is the PaintCare fee a deposit?

No. PaintCare says the fee is not a deposit; you don't get it back when you drop off paint.[3]

Sources (8 official pages, checked Oct 21, 2026)

Each numbered citation [n] above links to its source. Last checked Oct 21, 2026. Rules change, so confirm before you set anything out.

Pick your state

Opens the place guides in that state for this item.