How to Recycle Used Motor Oil in New Jersey

Used motor oil can be cleaned up and reused.

The state of New Jersey has a recycling program in place that allows motor oil to be recycled. If used motor oil is not contaminated by other chemicals, it can be recycled into fresh motor oil and reused. In New Jersey, the recycling system works by having approved drop-off points, where you can bring your waste to be collected and recycled by one of the state-approved private recycling facilities. Companies may also collect waste oil from your home or business, if practical.

Things You'll Need

• Small sealed containers
• Transportation

Instructions

1. Place used motor oil into a clean container that can be sealed tightly. Do not mix the oil with other substances such as paint thinner or antifreeze as the mixture cannot be recycled. Useful receptacles are empty motor oil containers, but be sure to label the bottle clearly with "Waste Oil," so that the container will be not be mistaken for clean oil.

2. Find one of the Class D recycling drop-off centers in your county. Contact details and websites with facility information can be found on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection website. Ensure the drop-off center you are bringing the oil to will accept the quantities of oil you have. For example, in Atlantic County, the Advanced Auto Parts in Absecon can only accept up to five gallons of motor oil per person per day. In addition, some facilities, such as the Brigantine Public Works drop-off point, cater to residents only.

3. Bring the oil --- in a suitable sized container --- to the drop-off center. The drop-off centers can be private motor businesses or public facilities. For example, all Bridgestone-Firestone Service Centers accept used motor oil. Used oil will be accepted during normal opening hours in drop-off locations. Most drop-off points do not charge fees for this service, however you must remove your empty container after drop-off.

4. Contact a recycling company directly if you have a lot of waste motor oil and would prefer to have it collected. For example, Lorco Petroleum Services, based in Elizabeth, will collect your used motor oil and transport it to its facility for recycling.

Tips & Warnings

• Other motor-related substances, such as antifreeze and batteries, can also be recycled in New Jersey.

• Keep the recycling theme going by purchasing recycled motor oil for your car's next oil change.

• Do not stockpile waste oil as it is a fire hazard.

References

• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection: Recycling in New Jersey
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection: 2010 Authorized Class D Used Oil Facilities
• Lorco Petroleum Services: Oil Recycling
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection: Recycle Used Motor Oil
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection: County Used Oil Drop-off Locations
• Atlantic County Utilities Authority: Motor Oil Drop-off Sites