Paint Waste Disposal Services

Professional Paint Disposal for Businesses Nationwide

Paint waste is one of the most common hazardous wastes generated by businesses. Whether you have oil-based paints, latex paints, spray paints, or industrial coatings, proper disposal is required by EPA regulations. Hazardous Waste Disposal has been helping businesses safely dispose of paint waste since 1992.

Call (800) 582-4833 for paint disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

Types of Paint Waste We Handle

Oil-Based Paints (Hazardous Waste)

Oil-based paints are flammable hazardous waste requiring special disposal.

What we handle:

• Alkyd paints

• Enamel paints

• Oil-based primers

• Oil-based stains

• Varnishes

• Polyurethane finishes

• Lacquers

EPA Classification: Typically D001 (ignitable waste)

Latex Paints (Often Non-Hazardous)

Latex paints are usually non-hazardous but still regulated.

What we handle:

• Acrylic latex paint

• Vinyl latex paint

• Water-based paints

• Interior/exterior latex

• Latex primers

Note: While often non-hazardous, latex paint still requires proper disposal and cannot go in regular trash in many areas.

Spray Paints

Aerosol spray paints are universal waste in most states.

What we handle:

• Aerosol spray paint cans (full or empty)

• Automotive spray paint

• Industrial spray coatings

• Touch-up paint aerosols

Regulation: Universal waste rules apply in most states

Industrial Coatings

Specialized coatings used in manufacturing and industrial applications.

What we handle:

• Epoxy coatings

• Polyurethane coatings

• Powder coatings

• Automotive finishes

• Industrial enamels

• Protective coatings

• Marine coatings

Paint-Related Waste

Additional paint waste streams requiring disposal.

What we handle:

• Paint thinners and solvents

• Paint strippers

• Paint sludge

• Dried paint chips

• Spray booth filters

• Paint overspray

• Contaminated paint equipment

• Paint booth waste

• Mixing cups and stir sticks

Why Paint Requires Special Disposal

Environmental Concerns

Paint contains chemicals that can harm the environment:

• Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, chromium)

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

• Solvents and thinners

• Chemical additives

Impact: Improper disposal contaminates soil, groundwater, and surface water.

Health Hazards

Paint exposure can cause:

• Respiratory irritation

• Skin and eye irritation

• Neurological effects

• Long-term health problems

Worker Safety: Proper handling protects employees from exposure.

Regulatory Requirements

EPA and state regulations mandate proper paint disposal:

• RCRA hazardous waste rules

• State paint disposal laws

• Universal waste regulations (aerosols)

• Air quality regulations (VOCs)

Penalties: Improper disposal can result in fines up to $70,000 per day per violation.

Paint Waste Regulations

Determining If Your Paint Is Hazardous

Oil-Based Paint: Almost always hazardous

• Flash point typically below 140°F

• EPA waste code D001 (ignitable)

• Must be manifested and disposed at permitted facility

Latex Paint: Usually non-hazardous

• Not ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic

• May still be regulated by state/local laws

• Some disposal methods available

How to Test:

• Check Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

• Conduct flash point test for ignitability

• Perform TCLP test if heavy metals suspected

Generator Categories for Paint Waste

Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG):

• Generate <220 lbs (about 27 gallons) of paint per month

• Can accumulate up to 2,200 lbs on-site

• No EPA ID number required

Small Quantity Generator (SQG):

• Generate 220-2,200 lbs per month

• 180-day accumulation limit

• EPA ID number required

• Must use manifest

Large Quantity Generator (LQG):

• Generate >2,200 lbs per month

• 90-day accumulation limit

• Full RCRA compliance required

State-Specific Paint Laws

Many states have additional paint regulations:

• California: Strict VOC limits and paint stewardship programs

• Oregon: Paint care program for architectural paints

• Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island: Paint stewardship programs

• Check your state environmental agency for specific requirements

Our Paint Disposal Services

Regular Scheduled Pickup

For ongoing paint waste generation:

• Weekly, monthly, or quarterly service

• Consistent compliance

• Cost-effective for regular generators

• Predictable scheduling

Perfect for:

• Auto body shops

• Painting contractors

• Manufacturing facilities

• Maintenance departments

One-Time Disposal

For occasional needs:

• Shop cleanouts

• Discontinued paint inventory

• Facility closures

• Project completion

Common scenarios:

• Contractor end-of-season cleanout

• Business relocation

• Warehouse inventory reduction

Emergency Paint Disposal

When you need immediate service:

• EPA inspection preparation

• Spill cleanup

• Lease termination

• Urgent compliance needs

Available within 24-48 hours in most areas

Container Supply

We provide proper containers:

• 5-gallon pails

• 15-gallon drums

• 30-gallon drums

• 55-gallon drums

• Custom sizes available

All containers are:

• DOT-approved

• Compatible with paint waste

• Properly labeled

• Leak-proof

Paint Storage Requirements

Proper Containers

Use appropriate containers:

• Compatible with paint type

• In good condition (no rust or damage)

• Properly sealed when not in use

• Right size for quantity

Avoid:

• Mixing different paint types

• Using damaged containers

• Overfilling containers

• Leaving containers open

Labeling Requirements

All paint waste containers must have:

• "HAZARDOUS WASTE" label (for oil-based)

• Contents description ("Waste Oil-Based Paint")

• Accumulation start date

• Hazard warnings ("Flammable")

• EPA waste codes (D001 for oil-based)

Storage Location

Choose storage areas that:

• Are away from heat sources and flames

• Have good ventilation

• Are protected from weather

• Have spill containment

• Are away from drains

• Have fire suppression available

Temperature considerations:

• Protect from freezing (damages latex paint)

• Avoid excessive heat (increases vapor pressure)

• Maintain moderate temperatures when possible

Accumulation Time Limits

Don't exceed time limits:

• LQG: 90 days maximum

• SQG: 180 days (or 270 if >200 miles from disposal)

• VSQG: No specific limit but don't accumulate >2,200 lbs

Paint Disposal Methods

Incineration (Oil-Based Paint)

Most common method for hazardous paint waste:

• High-temperature burning destroys paint

• Energy recovery in many facilities

• Ash residue disposed in hazardous waste landfill

• EPA-permitted facilities only

Fuel Blending (Oil-Based Paint)

Some paint waste can be used as fuel:

• Mixed with other wastes

• Burned in industrial kilns or boilers

• Energy recovery

• Must meet fuel specifications

Solidification (Latex Paint)

Non-hazardous latex paint options:

• Mix with absorbent material

• Allow to dry/harden

• Some programs accept dried latex

• Reduced disposal costs

Note: Check local regulations - many areas don't allow latex paint in regular trash even when dried.

Recycling Programs

Some areas have paint recycling:

• Architectural paint recycling programs

• Reprocessing into new paint

• Use in other products

• Check PaintCare.org for locations

Limitations: Usually only residential architectural paints, not industrial or auto paints.

Industries That Generate Paint Waste

Auto Body Shops

Paint waste generated:

• Automotive paints and clear coats

• Primers and sealers

• Paint thinners and reducers

• Spray booth filters

• Gun wash solvent

Typical volume: 50-200 gallons per month

Painting Contractors

Paint waste generated:

• Leftover paint from jobs

• Contaminated or unusable paint

• Paint thinners and solvents

• Equipment cleaning waste

Typical volume: Varies seasonally, 20-500 gallons annually

Manufacturing Facilities

Paint waste generated:

• Industrial coatings

• Powder coating waste

• Paint line waste

• Coating booth waste

• Equipment cleaning

Typical volume: 100-1,000+ gallons per month

Maintenance Departments

Paint waste generated:

• Facility maintenance paint

• Equipment painting waste

• Touch-up paint supplies

• Expired or unusable paint

Typical volume: 10-100 gallons per year

Furniture Manufacturers

Paint waste generated:

• Stains and finishes

• Lacquers and sealers

• Spray booth waste

• Wiping materials

Typical volume: 50-500 gallons per month

Paint Disposal Costs

Factors Affecting Price

Cost depends on:

• Paint type (hazardous vs. non-hazardous)

• Quantity to be disposed

• Container size and condition

• Your location

• Service frequency

• Special handling needs

Typical Pricing Ranges

Oil-Based Paint (Hazardous):

• $5-$15 per gallon

• Minimum pickup charges apply

• Volume discounts available

Latex Paint (Non-Hazardous):

• $3-$8 per gallon

• Lower cost than oil-based

• Drying/solidification may reduce cost

Spray Paint Aerosols:

• $1-$3 per can

• Universal waste rates

• Puncturing services available

Industrial Coatings:

• $8-$20 per gallon

• Depends on composition

• Special handling may increase cost

Additional Costs:

• Container rental: $50-$100 per drum per month

• Emergency service: 50-100% premium

• Profile updates: $100-$300

• Testing/characterization: $300-$1,000

Call (800) 582-4833 for accurate pricing for your paint waste

How to Reduce Paint Waste Costs

1. Segregate Paint Types

Don't mix different paints:

• Keep oil-based separate from latex

• Separate by color families if recycling

• Don't contaminate recyclable paint

Savings: 20-40% by enabling recycling options

2. Use Paint Completely

Minimize leftover paint:

• Accurate quantity calculations

• Proper storage to prevent drying

• First-in, first-out rotation

• Employee training on waste reduction

Savings: Reduce total waste volume

3. Explore Recycling

Check for paint recycling programs:

• PaintCare programs (10 states)

• Local hazardous waste facilities

• Paint reprocessing programs

• Donation programs for usable paint

Savings: $0-$5 per gallon vs. disposal

4. Dry Latex Paint On-Site

For non-hazardous latex:

• Mix with absorbent material

• Allow to solidify

• Check local disposal options

• Reduces liquid waste volume

Savings: 50%+ disposal cost reduction

5. Schedule Regular Service

Avoid one-time pickup premiums:

• Monthly or quarterly pickup

• Better per-gallon rates

• Included container supply

• Predictable budgeting

Savings: 15-30% vs. emergency service

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I pour paint down the drain? A: No. This is illegal and can contaminate water treatment systems and waterways. All paint must be properly disposed of.

Q: Can I let latex paint dry and throw it away? A: This depends on your local regulations. Many areas prohibit this. Check with your local waste authority before disposing of dried paint in trash.

Q: How should I store paint waste? A: In tightly sealed, compatible containers, away from heat and ignition sources, in a well-ventilated area with spill containment.

Q: Is spray paint hazardous waste? A: Aerosol spray paint is typically regulated as universal waste, which has less strict requirements than hazardous waste but still needs proper disposal.

Q: How long can I store paint waste? A: Depends on your generator category: 90 days for LQGs, 180 days for SQGs. Always schedule pickup before limits expire.

Q: What if I don't know what type of paint I have? A: Check the label or SDS. If unavailable, we can help characterize the waste or arrange for testing.

Q: Can old paint be recycled? A: Some architectural latex paint can be recycled through PaintCare programs. Industrial and oil-based paints typically cannot be recycled.

Q: What's the difference between oil-based and latex paint disposal? A: Oil-based paint is hazardous waste requiring special handling. Latex paint is usually non-hazardous but still regulated and requires proper disposal.

Get Started with Paint Disposal Service

Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

What to have ready:

• Type of paint (oil-based, latex, spray, etc.)

• Approximate quantity (gallons or number of containers)

• Container sizes

• Current storage location

• Desired pickup timeframe

We'll provide:

• Free quote for your paint disposal

• Proper containers if needed

• Pickup scheduling

• All necessary paperwork and manifests

• Certificates of disposal

• Compliance guidance

Serving businesses nationwide since 1992

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• Industrial Waste Management

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Learn More:

• How Much Does Hazardous Waste Disposal Cost?

• How to Dispose of Hazardous Waste