Used Oil

USED OIL


Are you a do-it-yourself oil changer? Well, you're not alone. Last year, the SWA recycled more than 31,095 gallons of used oil we received from Palm Beach County residents. We continuously strive to collect and recycle more used oil. However, we still need to get this message out: Used oil doesn't belong in our ground or water table!

WHY COLLECT USED OIL?

Improperly disposed oil can contaminate drinking water and harm aquatic animal and plant life. Just five gallons of motor oil can render 1 million gallons of water undrinkable. The oil can also create a film on top of rivers and lakes, depriving aquatic plant life of necessary sunlight and nutrients.

WHERE CAN I TAKE USED OIL?

Any HCRC or Public Used Oil Collection Center (PUOCC) - 

  • Residents can bring used motor oil to any SWA Home Chemical and Recycling Center (HCRC) free of charge. We also accept related automotive fluids such as brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and other lubricants. 
  • These can be mixed together - HOWEVER - NEVER MIX WITH GASOLINE OR OTHER FUELS OR SOLVENTS.
  • Additionally many businesses such as Auto parts stores may accept used oil.

HCRCOther PUOCC
Used Oil✔ (20 Gal Limit)
✔
Auto Fluids✔
*

For PUOCC locations call the Florida Department of Environmental Protection or click:  PUOCC Search

*Check first with the PUOCC for accepted materials.

ABOUT PUBLIC USED OIL COLLECTION CENTERS

Public Used Oil Collection Centers (PUOCCs)have been established throughout Florida in a cooperative effort between government and private businesses. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection maintains a list of registered locations and ensures that minimum standards are met. Becoming a PUOCC is voluntary. No law requires service stations or any business to accept used oil. Some must pay to have the oil hauled away and therefore may charge a small fee to accept it. 

Please call your collection center to learn more before dropping off used oil. Remember these locations accept used oil only!

DEPoilrecycling

HOW IS USED OIL RECYCLED?

Used oils may be recycled in several ways and it largely depends on economics, quality, and contamination.. Some businesses specialize in filtering and cleaning used oil to industry standards so that it can be used again. Used oil also has a high BTU value and can be blended with other combustible liquids for use as a fuel for industries such as cement kilns. This is how most PUOCC materials are used. In colder areas used oil can be burned directly as a heating fuel.

OTHER RESOURCES