Used Motor Oil and Filters
Motor oil recycling
Recycling used motor oil and filters
Did you know that used motor oil never wears out? It just gets dirty but can be recycled, cleaned, and used again. Motor oil poured onto the ground, down storm drains, or tossed into trash cans (even in a sealed container) can contaminate and pollute the soil, groundwater, streams, and rivers. There are three convenient ways to recycle used motor oil and filters for free, including curbside pickup.
Drop-off at a certified collection center or HHW facility
- Certified Collection Centers (CCC) such as Autozone, Jiffy Lube, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Pep Boys and others will take used motor oil from the public and some may pay you 40¢ a gallon. Most centers will take up to 5 gallons at a time.
- Take use motor oil and filters to the City's Household Hazardous Waste Facility.
Gloved hand holding a used oil filter over an engine
Curbside used oil and filter collection by appointment
How to recycle your used oil and filter: 1) Schedule a pickup. 2) Secure oil in container. 3) Drain bag and filter. 4) Place items on curb.
City of Sacramento residents can conveniently recycle used motor oil and filters without leaving home. This is an appointment only service. Appointments coincide with the regular recycling collection day. Simply follow these steps:
- Contact Customer Service at 311: Make a service request online, use the Sac 311 App for Iphone or Android or call 311 ( (916) 264-5011 ) to schedule and appointment for oil collection.
- Collection can be scheduled up to 48 hours before the next regularly scheduled recycling day. Maximum of two (2) gallons per appointment.
- Place used oil in a clear ONE-GALLON plastic jug like a milk or water jug.
- Secure the cap with tape.
- Place DRAINED oil filter in a leak-proof bag with the holes up. Seal the bag by twisting it, zipping it or tying it in a knot.
- Place items on the edge of your driveway close to the sidewalk so they are visible by 6:00 AM on your appointment day.
NOTE: Never contaminate used oil by mixing with other auto fluids. Only motor oil is accepted. Cooking oil is not collected curbside.