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Is leftover paint a hazardous waste?
Yes. Oil-based paint waste is hazardous and latex paint waste is presumed hazardous in California.
How do I dispose of my paint and paint container?
Empty paint containers should be recycled or sent to an appropriate solid waste facility. Non-empty paint containers need to be taken to a paint drop-off site or otherwise safely disposed. Contact your city or county recycling coordinator or solid waste service provider if you have questions about what can be disposed in your curbside bins.
Can I dump leftover paint down the drain?
No. Paint is prohibited from disposal on land or waters and must be recycled, or otherwise safely disposed in California. For information on where to drop–off leftover paint, please visit PaintCare’s Drop-Off Site Locator.
How do I clean my dirty paint brushes?
Rinse brushes and painting equipment in a sink or basin that can capture the rinse water, so the rinse water can be disposed of in a sanitary sewer (i.e., sink or toilet). Sanitary sewer systems can digest rinse water into harmless products. However, do not pour undiluted paint into a sink or toilet.
