The do's and don'ts of paint disposal

Updated November 21, 2022
Each year, millions of gallons of leftover paint are generated from households and businesses. In the state of California, it is prohibited to dispose paint in landfills. Proper handling is required to ensure unwanted paint is safely discarded.
 
If you are curious how to properly recycle your leftover paint and recycle your paint cans, check out some of our do’s and don’ts before taking the next steps:

Don’t: Throw away a can with wet paint into the trash can.

Do: If a paint can is empty and dry or completely hardened and dry, it can be placed in the regular trash can.

Don’t: Pour leftover paint down a sink or storm drain.

Do: Take leftover paint to any Paint Care location in the City, free of charge. Find a drop-off location near you.

Do: Paint can also be taken to the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) drop-off area at the Western Placer Waste Management Authority (WPWMA).

Don’t: Miss out on free assistance with hazard waste removal.

Do: Schedule a pickup appointment. Residents can schedule an HHW Collection appointment for paint. Up to 5 gallons per visit can be scheduled. Gallons are measured by the container size, not the contents.

Do: Consider donating your leftover paint to those in need such as a community center, charity or even a local theater. Together let’s paint a picture of properly disposing of hazardous waste to keep our California clean.

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