How to Dispose Of Old Gasoline In Maryland

Safely disposing of old gasoline in Maryland is vital for both environmental protection and public safety. Residents have several options, including household hazardous waste events and year-round recycling centers like the Reichs Ford Road facility in Frederick County. 

Keep reading to learn more!

Household Hazardous Waste Events

Many counties in Maryland host free drop-off events for household hazardous materials, including old gasoline. For example, Anne Arundel County holds regular Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off events for residents, and Frederick County hosts similar events throughout the year.

Year-Round Recycling Centers

Some facilities accept fuels like gasoline year-round at no charge. For instance, the Reichs Ford Road Recycling Drop Off Center in Frederick County accepts kerosene, diesel fuel, and hydraulic fluid throughout the year.

Preparation for Disposal

  1. Transfer to Approved Containers: Ensure gasoline is transferred into approved, travel-safe gas cans before transporting it to drop-off locations.
  2. Secure Containers: Double-check that the lids on all containers are tightly secured to prevent leaks or spills during transport.
  3. Proper Placement: Store the gasoline containers in a safe place in your vehicle, such as the trunk or truck bed, away from passengers.

Will a Junk Removal Company Remove Old Gasoline?

In most cases, junk removal companies will not remove old gasoline due to several important reasons:

Hazardous Material: Gasoline is classified as a hazardous material, requiring specific handling and disposal procedures. Most junk removal services are not equipped to manage hazardous waste safely.

Safety Concerns: Gasoline is highly flammable, which presents safety risks during transport and disposal. Junk removal services avoid handling such dangerous substances to prevent accidents.

Environmental Regulations: Strict regulations govern the disposal of gasoline and other petroleum products to protect the environment. Junk removal companies typically do not have the necessary permits or processes in place to dispose of gasoline legally.

Important Considerations

  • Residential Use Only: Most disposal programs are intended for residential use. Commercial waste is generally not accepted at these events.
  • Quantity Limits: Some facilities may have limits on the amount of gasoline they will accept. Always check with your local waste management authority for specific guidelines.
  • Never Mix: Do not mix gasoline with other substances like oil or water, as this complicates the disposal process and could make it unsafe.

Safety Precautions

When handling and transporting old gasoline, always prioritize safety:

  • Handle with care as gasoline remains highly flammable, even when old.
  • Keep it away from heat or ignition sources to prevent accidents.
  • Use approved fuel containers to minimize risks during transport.

Additional Information

For more details about hazardous waste disposal in Maryland, you can reach out to your local waste management department or visit their websites:

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) oversees hazardous waste management in the state. For more information on regulations, contact the MDE’s Solid Waste Program at (410) 537-3315.

By following these guidelines, you can safely and responsibly dispose of old gasoline, ensuring environmental protection and adherence to local regulations in Maryland.