PAINT

Liquid paints present handling problems in the municipal solid waste stream as they have the potential to create unsightly road stains, or runoff causing contamination of surrounding vegetation and soils.

Oil-based paints are usually combustible or flammable and may contain hazardous solvents or other hazardous materials as well. Paint from businesses may be regulated as a hazardous waste (see hazardous waste section).

Paint cans that are empty, or cans that have paint that is completely dry, may be discarded in the regular garbage. Remove the lids and put the cans in a garbage bag. Paint cans set at the curb are usually not picked up by haulers.

For latex paint, if the can is 1/3 full, or less, the paint may be dried. Pour cat litter (clay type), or saw dust into the paint, stir it, and allow it to stand until the paint has completely dried, then discard the cans of solid paint with regular trash or garbage (keep lids off when putting in trash).

Bulk liquids are banned from landfills in Florida.

Usable latex paint that is brought to hazardous waste is sent to a paint manufacturer who remanufactures it into usable recycled latex paint.