How to Dispose of Old Gasoline the Legal (and Safe) Way

It might feel tempting to just dump out that little bit of stale gas, but even a small amount can pollute groundwater and pose an explosion or fire hazard. That means it’s imperative to know how to dispose of gas properly.

“I’ve observed gas fumes activating a carbon monoxide detector,” says auto enthusiast Alex Black. “Fortunately, no one got harmed, but it might have been catastrophic. Bottom line: even a small quantity of stale gas can pollute groundwater or pose an explosion hazard. Don’t play with it. Handle it like a loaded gun.”

If you need to dispose of gas safely, here’s what to know.

Why Proper Gas Disposal is Important

Gas is a toxic substance, which is also dangerous because it is highly flammable. So, when it is disposed of improperly, even a small amount can permanently contaminate groundwater and soil, plus create a fire risk and result in fines and legal ramifications.

Local Laws & Regulations on Gas Disposal

Local laws about hazardous waste disposal differ depending on where you live, but all U.S. states classify gasoline as hazardous waste.

“Each county is a bit different, but they all are unanimous in this: no drains, no trash, no backyards,” says Black. “In some communities, if you illegally dump it, you’ll be fined several hundred dollars, even on an ‘oops’ moment.”

To find out laws for your area, visit the municipal waste management authority website or check the local environmental protection agency website.

How To Dispose of Gasoline Safely

Hazardous waste sign on chain link fence. Oil barrels in background. 3D rendered illustration.

Contact your local government to learn about hazardous waste programs, drop-off locations and regulations. Some fire stations will also take it.

“Disposing of gasoline safely is not something that can be done at home,” says Julie Bausch Lent, managing editor of Car Talk. “Under no circumstances should you dispose of gasoline down a stair or sewer system; you run the risk of this very flammable, dangerous substance getting into the groundwater or contaminating the ecosystem around you.”

To transport gasoline to an approved disposal site:

• Use a red gas can or other gasoline-approved container. Do not use milk jugs or bottles.
• Clearly mark it: “USED GASOLINE – DO NOT USE.”
• Never mix or dilute gasoline with other fluids.
• Call your drop-off location ahead of time, to make sure they are currently accepting it.
• In the meantime, store it in a cool environment with good ventilation, free from heat and ignition sources.
• Don’t haul it in a car with closed windows, and make sure it’s secured well before you drive. “I’ve had trunks drenched from a leaky can, and it’s a nightmare to get the gas off, plus perilous,” says Black.

How To Find Where to Dispose of Gasoline Near Me

Hazardous household waste disposal sites are dependent on your location and your local government. A good place to start is with a Google search for your location and “hazardous waste disposal.” You can also ask recycling centers in your area or your trusted local mechanic or visit Earth911.com, which lists drop-off locations by zip code.

FAQ

Can you pour gasoline down the drain?

No. It is illegal and extremely dangerous, plus even small amounts of gasoline can do major damage to water systems and wildlife.

“The presence of gasoline in pipes leads to corrosion, contaminates water sources and produces explosive vapors that can build up inside plumbing systems,” says auto mechanic Alan Gelfand. “The violation of these regulations will lead to major penalties and health dangers.”

Black also emphasizes that one gallon of gas can contaminate a thousand gallons of water. “And those fumes? If they find a spark in a water heater or from a power tool, boom, it’s gonna burn,” he says. “I’ve interviewed fire marshals who’ve witnessed homes being destroyed by people dumping fuel in storm drains.”

What should I do if I spilled gasoline?

• Remove any possible flame sources, including lit cigarettes.
• If the spill occurred indoors, open windows and doors for ventilation.
• Secure children and pets away from the area.
• Use cat letter or a spill kit (available at hardware stores) to soak up the spill. “Do not pour water on the spill location,” says Bausch Lent. “This will only spread it.
• After the material becomes saturated, carefully move it into a sealable, non-reactive container for transporting it to a hazardous waste facility. “The disposal of gas-soaked materials in household trash and the use of water for gasoline spill cleaning are prohibited because they can ignite spontaneously,” says Gelfand.
• Scrub the area with dish soap or detergent.
• If the spill is large, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.

“On small spills on garage floors or concrete, spread kitty litter, baking soda or even dry coffee grounds onto it,” says Black. “Also, don’t wash and dry clothing like you normally would; it’s a fire hazard in the dryer. Instead, air it outside, then just toss it if it still doesn’t go away.”

About the Experts

• Julie Bausch Lent is managing editor of Car Talk, the digital content iteration of the long-running NPR show about all things automotive.
• Alex Black is chief marketing officer at EpicVIN. He has been car expert for more than 15 years, working at car auctions, vehicle history providers and more.
• Alan Gelfand has been the owner of German Car Depot for more than 30 years. His business is an independent automotive service center in Hollywood, Florida, specializing in the service and repair of German vehicles.

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