Preventing Pollution
Used Motor Oil and Filter Recycling
There are three easy and free options to safely recycle your used motor oil and filters in San Mateo County described below.
It’s important to remember that these options are for uncontaminated oil only! Oil mixed with water, paint, solvents, rags, and antifreeze is contaminated. This oil must be taken to the San Mateo County Household Hazardous Waste Facility. Learn more here.
WHY RECYCLE USED OIL & FILTERS?
Here are 3 reasons to recycle your used motor oil and filters:
1 – ENVIRONMENT:
Did you know that one quart of motor oil can pollute up to
250,000 gallons of clean water? Used motor oil is a major source
of oil contamination of waterways and can result in pollution of
drinking water sources. Recycling used oil and filters
protects the environment.
2 – COST-SAVINGS:
Improper disposal of used oil costs money…your money! You
pay in higher consumer prices, taxes for environmental cleanups,
and increased health care costs when wastes are improperly
managed. Recycling used oil and filters saves
money.
3 – IT’S THE LAW!:
The California Health and Safety Code 25189.6 states that anyone
who improperly disposes of hazardous waste, such as used oil, is
guilty of a public offense punishable of a fine up to $250,000 or
prison time. Improper disposal of used oil is a
crime.
HHW Program Overview
San Mateo County’s HHW Program helps residents reuse, recycle, or responsibly manage residential hazardous waste for free. There are multiple easy and free ways to safely and properly remove HHW from your home. County residents can:
- Local Drop-off locations (no appointment needed): Find local recycling and disposal options for paint, electronics, fluorescent lights, medicines and more – no appointment needed!
- Curbside Pick up: Take advantage of battery and used oil pick-up on your recycle/garbage collection day. Check your hauler for details.
- Make an HHW drop-off appointment. Review the program rules and schedule an appointment that’s convenient for you.
