Curbside GuideHow to dispose of paint in Boston, MA
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Quick answer
Dry out latex paint and put it in the trash. Bring oil-based paint to a Boston Zero Waste Day with proof of residency.
Last verified:
- Latex (water-based)
- Not hazardous. Dry it out in the can (cat litter, paint hardener or shredded newspaper speeds it up), then put it out with regular trash.
- Oil-based
- Bring it to a Boston Zero Waste Day drop-off.
- Where to drop off
- Zero Waste Days (next listed: Sat Nov 21, 2026, 8:30am–noon, 315 Gardner St., West Roxbury).
- Cost / limits
- Free for Boston residents with proof of residency. Limit 20 gallons of paint, no container over 5 gallons.
- Tip
- Leave the lid off dried latex cans so crews can see they're solid.
Official source: www.boston.gov · www.boston.gov
FAQ
How do I dispose of paint in Boston?
Dry out latex paint and put it in the trash. Bring oil-based paint to a Boston Zero Waste Day with proof of residency.
How do I get rid of latex paint in Boston?
Not hazardous. Dry it out in the can (cat litter, paint hardener or shredded newspaper speeds it up), then put it out with regular trash.
How do I get rid of oil-based paint in Boston?
Bring it to a Boston Zero Waste Day drop-off.
Where can I drop off paint in Boston?
Zero Waste Days (next listed: Sat Nov 21, 2026, 8:30am–noon, 315 Gardner St., West Roxbury).
Does paint disposal cost anything in Boston?
Free for Boston residents with proof of residency. Limit 20 gallons of paint, no container over 5 gallons.