Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Recycling used motor oil and oil filters prevents pollution, protects water sources, and conserves natural resources. Used motor oil can be re-refined into new oil, while the metals in oil filters can be recycled and reused.

Collection and Disposal

Used motor oil and filters can be recycled at:

No, recycling used motor oil and oil filters at Certified Collection Centers and designated events is free of charge.

Yes, many auto parts stores, such as AutoZone and O’Reilly Auto Parts, serve as Certified Collection Centers and accept used motor oil and filters. Check with your local store before dropping off materials. Click here to find a Certified Collection Center near you.

You can recycle up to five gallons of uncontaminated used motor oil per visit at a Certified Collection Center. Each center determines the number of used oil filters it can accept at a time. Contact your nearest CCC for specific guidelines.

Used motor oil should be stored in a clean, leak-proof container with a secure lid. Do not mix motor oil with other fluids such as water, antifreeze, gasoline, or chemicals.

Certified Collection Center (CCC) may refuse to accept used motor oil for the following reasons:

    • The oil is contaminated (e.g., mixed with other fluids, including water, antifreeze or coolant).
    • The store’s oil storage tank is full.
    • The amount of oil exceeds the center’s quantity limits.

If a CCC refuses your used motor oil due to a full storage tank, take your used motor oil to another nearby CCC. For all other reasons, take the oil to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) permanent collection center or temporary collection event for proper disposal. Visit our Household Hazardous Waste page for locations and schedules.

Illegal dumping refers to the improper disposal of used motor oil and filters in unauthorized locations such as trash bins, storm drains, streets, sidewalks, or other outdoor areas not designated for disposal. It also includes leaving used oil or filters outside a Certified Collection Center when the facility is closed and dumping used oil into trash bins.

Under California Penal Code 374.3, illegal dumping on public or private property is punishable by fines of up to $10,000. Additionally, per Section 117555 of the California Health and Safety Code, violators may face up to six months in jail. To avoid penalties, always recycle used motor oil and filters at designated collection centers or events.

Source: Los Angeles County Public Works

Used Oil Filter Exchange Events

A Used Oil Filter Exchange Event allows residents to recycle their used oil filters from cars, motorcycles, or light-duty trucks, and receive a free replacement filter, while supplies last.

Bring a used oil filter to a Filter Exchange Event for recycling and complete a brief survey. In return, you will receive a free new filter (valued at up to $15 before tax), while supplies last. Limited to one filter per household, no exceptions.

Yes, you may bring multiple used oil filters for recycling. However, each household is eligible to receive only one free oil filter per event, regardless of how many used oil filters are brought in. This policy helps ensure more residents have the opportunity to participate.

Yes, you can recycle up to five gallons of uncontaminated used motor oil for free at the event. However, to receive a free oil filter, you must bring in a used oil filter for recycling. If you only recycle used motor oil and complete a survey, you will only receive a set of functional items, including a dual capacity used oil filter container, a funnel, and a towel, while supplies last.

Filter Exchange Events are held periodically at participating auto parts stores across Los Angeles County. For upcoming event details, visit FreeFilterLA.com or call (888) CLEAN-LA.

Regulations and Environmental Impact

Recycled motor oil is refined into new lubricants or reprocessed into industrial fuel.

Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency

Used oil filters are crushed, and the extracted metal is recycled to manufacture new products, such as steel rebar and construction materials.

Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency

Improper disposal of used motor oil and filters can contaminate soil and water sources, harm wildlife, and contribute to environmental degradation. Always recycle used motor oil and filters at Certified Collection Centers or Filter Exchange Events to protect your community and avoid penalties.

HHW centers and events accept various hazardous materials, including:

    • Paints and solvents
    • Batteries
    • Electronic waste (E-Waste)
    • Pharmaceuticals
    • Household cleaners and pesticides

Visit our Household Hazardous Waste page for a complete list of accepted materials.

By properly recycling used motor oil and oil filters, you help protect the environment and conserve valuable resources. Thank you for doing your part!