Paint Disposal in Colorado Springs

Paint is the single most common restricted item in a home cleanout, because everybody has half-used cans in the garage from projects going back a decade. Here is where it goes, and it does not cost anything.

Can Paint Go in a Dumpster?

Not while it is wet. Liquid paint leaks, soaks into everything else in the bin, and turns an ordinary load into contaminated waste. That applies to latex, oil-based, stain, primer and solvents alike.

Fully dried-out cans sit in a grey area. The safe move is the HHW facility, because it is free and it removes the judgment call entirely.

Where Do I Take Paint in Colorado Springs?

El Paso County Household Hazardous Waste Facility, 3255 Akers Dr. Free for El Paso and Teller County households. Bring a driver's license or lease showing a county address. Call 719-520-7878 before a large load — they may want to schedule it.

They also take stain, solvents, thinners, pesticides, pool chemicals, motor oil, fluorescent bulbs and batteries. If you are making the trip for paint, take the rest of the garage shelf with you.

PaintCare drop-off sites. Colorado participates in a paint stewardship program, and a number of retail paint and hardware stores accept leftover architectural paint for recycling. Call the store first to confirm they participate and what they take.

What About Empty Cans?

A can with nothing in it is metal, and metal is recyclable. A can with a skin of dried paint in the bottom is usually acceptable too, but if you have a stack of them and you are unsure, ask us at 719-686-8613.

Plan the Paint Run Before the Bin Arrives

This is the practical bit. The HHW facility keeps limited hours, and discovering that mid-cleanout is how paint ends up in the bin by accident. Do the chemical run first, while the garage is still organized enough to find everything, then start filling the dumpster.

Our hazardous waste guide covers the facility in more detail, and what can't go in a dumpster has the full restricted list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is paint disposal free in Colorado Springs?

Yes, at the county HHW facility on Akers Dr, for El Paso and Teller County households with proof of residency.

Can I dry out paint and throw it away?

Dried paint is a different case than wet, but the free county facility removes the question entirely. If you have a stack of dried cans, call and ask.

Do I need an appointment?

Call 719-520-7878 first, especially for a large load. They may want to schedule it.

What else can I bring at the same time?

Solvents, thinners, oil, pesticides, pool chemicals, fluorescent bulbs and batteries — all free for county households.