How to Dispose of Paint in Sonoma County

Clear out those old cans taking up space on your garage shelves.

Every garage has them. Stacks of old paint cans from a remodel five years ago. You cannot throw liquid paint in the trash. It is illegal and it ruins the garbage trucks.

Latex Paint vs. Oil-Based Paint

First, check the label. Latex paint cleans up with water. Oil-based paint requires mineral spirits. They are handled differently.

Drying Out Latex Paint

If there is only a little bit of latex paint left in the can, you can dry it out. Take off the lid. Let it sit in the sun. Or mix in cheap kitty litter to absorb the liquid. Once the paint is completely rock solid, you can toss the can in your regular garbage with the lid off. The garbage company needs to see that it is solid.

The PaintCare Program

California has a great program called PaintCare. Many local hardware stores take back old paint for free. Check with stores like Friedman's Home Improvement in Santa Rosa or Petaluma. They usually accept up to 5 gallons per visit. The paint must be in its original container with the original label.

Household Hazardous Waste Facility

Oil-based paint is hazardous waste. You cannot dry it out and throw it away. You must take it to the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility at the Central Disposal Site on Mecham Road. They have specific drop-off days for residents, usually Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Junk Removal Limits

We are a junk removal company. We haul couches, debris, and boxes. We do not haul hazardous waste. We cannot put liquid paint in our trucks. You have to handle the wet paint yourself using the resources above.