Water Quality District - Hazardous Waste
Oil & Oil Filters
What Makes it Hazardous?
Used oil and used oil filters may contain hazardous contaminants such as lead, magnesium, copper, zinc, and/or other heavy metals which are picked up from the engine. Used oil that is disposed of improperly can kill vegetation, harm wildlife, and pollute surface water and groundwater. Just one gallon of motor oil can pollute up to one million gallons of water and can form an oil slick nearly 8 acres in size. It is illegal to pour used oil on the ground, down a drain, sewer, or in the trash.
Safety Tips
- Store motor oil in a container with a sealed lid.
- Do not store oil outside.
- Do not mix gas or any other liquid with your used oil, since many collection facilities will not accept mixtures.
- Clean up spilled oil immediately. If spilled on soil, scoop up the soil until you can no longer see or smell the oil. Contact Allied or Emerald Services regarding disposal of the contaminated soil.
Disposal Options
Recycle:
- Annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event: During Haz Waste Days, in September, up to 10 gallons of motor oil will be accepted free-of-charge at the event, courtesy of Oily Waste Processors.
- Allied Waste will take up to 2 gal. of waste oil per weekly pickup from single family residential customers for free, if left at curbside with trash, in clear milk jugs.
- Some service stations accept small quantities of used motor oil for recycling.
The Residential Disposal Guide is provided by the Missoula Valley Water Quality District as a public service and is not an endorsement of specific businesses, services or products. Any omissions or inaccuracies are unintentional. Please contact us with corrections or additions. Call businesses or agencies to confirm hours, locations and charges for services, if any. For information on disposal of items not listed, email or call the Water Quality District at 406-258-4890, M - F, 8 am to 5 pm.
Much of the information provided is from the Washington County, MN, Dept. of Public Health and Environment website.
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