Used Motor Oil and Filters Alternative ways to recycle Illegal in Garbage or Drains Hazardous Waste Curbside Collection Your service provider will collect used motor oil and filters during your weekly curbside collection. Motor oil must be in a clear plastic jug with the screw-on lid taped in place. Oil filters must be drained and sealed in clear plastic bags. Once properly prepared, these items may be placed on the ground and next to your recycle cart for collection on your regular service day. Your service provider will properly dispose of both the motor oil and filters. Certified Collection Centers San Joaquin County residents may take used oil and filters to any of over 60 Certified Collection Centers within San Joaquin County. Most of these collection centers will accept up to 5 gallons of oil per trip, although some may take more. Collection centers may or may not accept used oil filters and may accept them in differing quantities. We suggest that you call the location nearest you for details. See a complete list of used oil collection centers. Household Hazardous Waste Facilities Residents may also dispose of used oil and oil filters along with other Household Hazardous Waste. 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.
