Where to Dispose of Paint in Phoenix | Sites, Rules & Tips

The best place to dispose of paint in Phoenix? That’d be GreenSheen Paint. They take both latex and oil-based paint for free, no strings attached, just show up during business hours and you’re good. Simple, legal, and hassle-free. 

So many people ask us, “What do I do with this leftover paint?” It’s a great question, and the answer’s not as straightforward as it should be. 

Dumping it in the trash? Not always legal. 

Leaving it by the curb? That could cost you a fine. 

And let’s be honest, no one wants to play guessing games with hazardous waste.

This guide walks you through exactly where you can legally dispose of paint in Phoenix, and what it’ll cost you (if anything). 

Whether you’ve got a single can of latex or a garage full of oil-based leftovers, we’ll show you your best options. So let’s get into it, and get that paint out of your way the right way.

Can You Just Throw Paint in the Trash in Phoenix?

Sometimes yes, but not always. It all depends on the type of paint.

1. Latex Paint Is Okay (If It’s Dry)

You can toss latex or acrylic paint in the trash only after it’s completely dried out. 

Mix in cat litter, paint hardener, or shredded newspaper, leave the lid off, and let it solidify. Trash crews won’t take liquid paint.

2. Oil-Based Paint Is Hazardous Waste

Oil-based paint is flammable and toxic, Phoenix treats it as hazardous waste. 

That means you can’t put it in your trash, even if it’s dry. It needs to go to an approved Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) site. Not Sure What You’ve Got?

• Smells bad (like sewage)? Toss it.

• Chunky like cottage cheese? It’s gone bad.

• Rusty tint or corroded can? Trash it.

• Check the label: latex = safe if dry; oil-based = HHW only.

Phoenix doesn’t mess around; dumping liquids or leaving paint out illegally can lead to fines and environmental damage. 

If you’re unsure, give us a call at ProSmart Painting. It's just one more way we make things easier.

Where to Dispose of Paint in Phoenix: Best Local Options

If you're in Phoenix proper, the good news is, you've got a few solid, local options for legally and responsibly getting rid of that leftover paint. 

Whether you're cleaning out a couple of old cans or an entire shelf, here's where to go and what to expect.

1. Phoenix Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Pickup

The city of Phoenix offers free annual hazardous waste pickup, but only for residents who are enrolled in Phoenix's solid waste services.

• You can dispose of up to 10 gallons of paint per year through this program.

• Appointments are required and fill up fast, especially in spring and fall when everyone’s tackling home projects.

• Paint must be sealed, labeled, and not leaking.

• This service is only offered once a year, so if your timeline’s tight, you’ll need a backup plan.

If you're moving and your pickup appointment is after your departure date, you’ll need to explore drop-off or private disposal options immediately.

Check the list of accepted items on the City Of Phoenix website.

Phoenix residents can also drop off hazardous waste on the second Friday of each month, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Phoenix Hazardous Waste Recycling Facility.

2. GreenSheen Paint – Best for Fast, Free Drop-Offs

If there’s one place I always recommend for quick, no-fuss paint disposal in Phoenix, it’s GreenSheen Paint.

• Accepts both latex and oil-based paints

• FREE disposal, funded through retail paint fees

• No appointment needed

• Does NOT accept aerosols, solvents, or leaking containers

Location: 1626 S 51st Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85043Open Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm

IMPORTANT: Never drop paint off after hours. It’s illegal and considered dumping, you could face fines. I've had customers ask, “Can I just leave it by the door if they’re closed?” and the answer is a hard no. Plan your trip during business hours.

3. PaintCare Retail Drop-Off Sites (Phoenix Locations Only)

PaintCare partners with select retailers in Phoenix to accept leftover paint.

• Most sites allow up to 5 gallons per visit, but some may take more.

• Call ahead to confirm they’re accepting paint and ask whether they accept oil-based, latex, or both.

• These sites do not take leaking, unlabeled, or aerosol paint products.

Quick note: While PaintCare doesn’t operate every store in the Valley, there are active locations within Phoenix that many of my customers have used. Always verify the location before heading out.

4. Stericycle – Professional Hazardous Waste Disposal in Phoenix

If city services are booked up and you need to get rid of paint now, Stericycle offers private, professional paint disposal in Phoenix.

• They accept a wide range of hazardous household products, including oil- and water-based paints.

• Expect to pay $30 or more per load, depending on volume and material type.

• Their team handles disposal responsibly and meets state and federal safety guidelines.

• It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s reliable, especially when time is tight.

Some of our ProSmart customers have gone this route when they couldn’t wait for city pickup, and while the cost stings a bit, they’ve had peace of mind knowing it was handled correctly.

Whether you're dealing with HOA repainting rules, cleaning out a rental, or just doing a long-overdue garage purge, these Phoenix-only options have you covered. 

Can Someone Pick Up the Paint for Me?

Yes, but with a few important limits.

1. City of Phoenix Pickup

If you're a Phoenix solid waste customer, you can schedule one free hazardous waste pickup per year. This includes up to 10 gallons of paint, but:

• You must book an appointment in advance.

• Slots fill up quickly, especially during spring and summer.

• Paint must be sealed, labeled, and not leaking.

Moving soon? If your pickup date falls after you leave, consider a drop-off site or private service instead.

2. No PaintCare Pickup in Arizona

While some states offer PaintCare pickup, Arizona does not currently have this option. Disposal is either through city programs or private providers.

3. Private Pickup Options (Like Stericycle)

If you need it gone quickly, Stericycle offers hazardous waste pickup in Phoenix.

• Expect to pay around $30 or more per pickup, depending on the volume.

• A good alternative if city services aren’t available in time.

Smart Tip: Share the Load – Some homeowners consolidate paint with neighbors to meet pickup limits.

Dumping Other Things Besides Paint

Many people want to get rid of several stuff at once. But that’s not always possible and taking things without permission isn’t a good idea. 

Each site in Phoenix has its own rules about what and how you can dump.

1. GreenSheen Paint

This location is strictly for paint-related products only. 

They accept latex and oil-based paints, stains, and sealers, but not aerosols, solvents, or non-paint items. If it’s not in the paint family, leave it out.

2. Phoenix HHW Pickup Program

The city's hazardous waste program allows you to include items like:

• Pesticides

• Automotive fluids (oil, antifreeze, etc.)

• Batteries

• Household chemicals

Just be sure to label everything clearly and follow quantity limits. When in doubt, check the official guidelines before your appointment.

3. Private Facilities (Like Stericycle)

Private providers often accept a broader range of hazardous materials, including:

• Lye and other caustic chemicals

• Antifreeze

• Drywall sealer and solvents

Always confirm ahead of time; they’ll often give you a checklist based on your materials.

Important Note: Broken glass, appliances, or construction debris are not accepted at any paint disposal sites in Phoenix. These require separate drop-offs or bulk trash services, depending on the item.

If you’re unsure, call the facility before showing up; nothing’s worse than loading your truck and getting turned away. 

Final Word: Responsible Disposal Is Easier Than You Think

If that old paint has been sitting in your garage because you weren’t sure what to do with it, you’re not alone. 

But here’s the good news: Phoenix gives you options. Whether you want it picked up for free, dropped off quickly, or handled professionally, there’s a solution that fits your schedule, your budget, and the type of paint you’ve got.

And if you're feeling overwhelmed by the rules or the prep, don't stress. At ProSmart Painting, we don’t just leave you with a freshly painted home, we help you handle what comes before and after. 

As a business built on quality, trust, and making things easier for homeowners, we believe your paint project should end with peace of mind, not a pile of cans collecting dust.