Used Motor Oil and Filters Alternative ways to recycle Illegal in Garbage & Drains Hazardous Waste FREE Multi-Day Marine Flares Collection Event for West Contra Costa County Boaters/Residents (October 16-November 2, 2024) Wednesday, October 16, 2024 More Info Get Reminder It is illegal to pour used oil down any drain, into the soil, or to throw used oil and filters in the trash. Do not throw them in the trash. You may take it to a Certified Used Oil Collection Center or the HHW Facilities located in West Contra Costa County. CLICK HERE to learn about your options to secure, handle, and where to properly recycle used motor oil for free. Don't Dump in Trash or Down Drain Used motor oil is a major contaminant of waterways, so never dump down the drain or in the trash. Filters also leak toxic materials into waterways, which are slow to break down in the environment. Never Mix with Other Chemicals Service stations will not accept motor oil that has been contaminated with other products like antifreeze. Don’t mix your motor oil with anything else. Alternative Ways to Recycle Take to Service Stations The best way to recycle used motor oil and filters is to take them to a service station or auto shop. Find one that’s certified. Did You Know? What Happens to Recycled Motor Oil Used motor oil can be cleaned and recycled, which helps keep it out of waterways. Recycled oil is then used to make heating oil, asphalt and other petroleum-based products. It is usually not recycled and resold as motor oil.
