Paint Recycling Program Begins in New York State

The New York State Postconsumer Paint Collection Program began on May 1, 2022. The program is operated by PaintCare, a non-profit organization established by the paint industry to manage unwanted architectural coating products and provide for their recycling or proper disposal.

The program accepts leftover latex and oil-based paints and similar products at drop-off sites throughout the state. View a complete list of products accepted by PaintCare.

Paint Drop-Off SitesPaintCare will provide a collection network of over 300 drop-off sites across the state made up of paint retailers, local government facilities, and reuse stores. Find a paint drop-off site near you.

  • Drop-off sites will accept up to 5 gallons per customer per visit, some sites may accept more.
  • Paint should be in original containers with intact labels that identify the product.

The program is funded by a small fee – the PaintCare Fee – on the sale of all new paint in the state.  The program will provide for continuous and convenient collection year-round and accept all program products regardless of when they were purchased. No longer will you have to plan to bring unwanted oil-based paints for collection at your local Household Hazardous Waste collection event or dry out unwanted latex paint for household trash pick-up!

Business or Bulk Paint CollectionBusinesses, organizations, and households with 100 gallons of paint or more to recycle can request a free pick-up at their location, though some restrictions may apply. Submit a request form through PaintCare’s website.

Additional program information can be found on DEC’s NYS Postconsumer Paint Collection Program webpage.

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