Disposing of gasoline is essential for anyone who has leftover fuel that’s no longer usable, whether due to age or contamination. It’s common for people in the following situations to need gasoline disposal:

1. Homeowners: Those with old gas for lawnmowers, generators, or other equipment that hasn’t been used in a while. Gasoline goes stale after a few months, losing its effectiveness and even posing safety risks.
2. Automobile Owners: Mechanics or car enthusiasts who may be draining fuel tanks, whether because of repairs, fuel contamination, or vehicle storage, may need to dispose of old gas.
3. Boat Owners: Since boats often sit unused for long periods, old or contaminated fuel may accumulate, needing careful disposal.
4. Businesses and Farms: Industries and agricultural operations with fuel-powered equipment sometimes have surplus or unusable gasoline from seasonal or discontinued equipment.

Steps to Dispose of Gasoline Safely

1. Check Local Regulations: Many areas have specific disposal guidelines or hazardous waste programs that accept gasoline. Some auto repair shops and hazardous waste disposal centers may take old gasoline.
2. Find a Hazardous Waste Facility: Locate a certified hazardous waste disposal site by contacting your local waste management department or looking up local hazardous waste collection events.
3. Use a Recycling Facility: Some recycling centers accept old fuel and dispose of it safely or even recycle it.
4. Avoid Dumping or Burning Gasoline: Never pour gasoline down drains, into soil, or in regular trash, and do not burn it. These practices harm the environment and are illegal.
5. Store Properly Until Disposal: If immediate disposal isn’t available, keep gasoline in a certified gas container in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat and ignition sources, until you can safely dispose of it.

Safe gasoline disposal is crucial to prevent environmental harm, accidents, and health risks, and it’s something that many equipment owners, automotive enthusiasts, and businesses may encounter.

In Palm Beach Gardens, gasoline can be safely disposed of at designated Home Chemical and Recycling Centers (HCRCs) operated by the Solid Waste Authority (SWA) of Palm Beach County. The closest staffed locations for gasoline disposal are:

1. West Palm Beach at 7501 N. Jog Road, or
2. West Delray Beach on South State Road 7.

These sites are open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring gasoline in sealed, labeled containers (5 gallons or smaller) and can dispose of up to 30 gallons per visit. At these locations, you can also have containers emptied and returned to you if needed. Smaller quantities of up to 10 gallons are accepted at other SWA transfer stations across the county.

To ensure safe disposal, contact SWA at 561-687-1100 for any additional details or requirements before your visit. More information on the exact services and disposal guidelines can be found on the SWA website​.