Paint: latex, water-based, or acrylic
Disposal guidance for eligible businesses
Not accepted at hazardous waste collection sites
Special disposal procedure:
You can recycle your paint products at a PaintCare drop-off site. Accepted products include latex paint, oil-based paint, stain, varnish, and more. Business customers who have a large volume of oil-based or latex paint (at least 200 gallons) can schedule a free pickup service with PaintCare. Visit the PaintCare website or call (855) 724-6809 for more information.
Latex, water-based, or acrylic paint can go in the trash if:
- There is less than an inch of paint in the can and it is dried
- There is more than an inch of paint in the can and it is mixed with cat litter or paint hardener and solidified
- Throw the can of dried paint in the garbage with the LID OFF
Frequently-Asked Questions
Your business is eligible to receive no-fee hazardous waste disposal up to four times a year if it is:
- Located in King County
- A Small Quantity Generator (SQG), meaning that you do all of the following:
- Produce less than 220 pounds (about 25 gallons) of hazardous waste per month
- Produce less than 2.2 pounds (about a quart) of acutely hazardous waste per month
- Store less than 2,200 pounds (about four 55-gallon drums) of hazardous waste
If your business exceeds the noted limits, you may require special disposal services via a private hazardous waste management firm. We can help! Call us at 206-296-4692.
Eligible businesses should plan to fill out a business disposal form to qualify for no-fee disposal at any hazardous waste collection site.
- Complete the form. You can find a digital copy online, or download the PDF. Print two copies and bring them with you to your preferred collection site.
- Prep for disposal. Keep items in their original containers and label those products that are unmarked. Be careful not to mix different types of waste and secure items so they do not spill or tip over during transport.
- Drop off your hazardous items. Bring your items to a disposal collection site. There’s no fee—the service is funded through your utility bill.