Can I put wet paint in the trash in Howard County?

No, you cannot dispose of wet paint in the trash. It must be solidified (for latex) or taken to a hazardous waste facility (for oil-based).

Does Alpha Ridge Landfill take paint every day?

No, Alpha Ridge Landfill only accepts oil-based paint and other hazardous materials during specific Household Hazardous Waste collection days, typically on Saturdays from April through November.

How to Recycle Paint in Howard County: The Complete Guide

Old paint cans are one of the most common items left behind in Howard County basements and garages. Whether you're in Ellicott City finishing a renovation or decluttering a home in Columbia, knowing how to handle old paint is crucial for environmental safety and following local laws.

1. Identify Your Paint Type

Before you dispose of anything, you must know what you're dealing with. The rules for disposal change drastically based on the chemical makeup of the paint.

Latex Paint: Water-based. Usually says "Latex" or "Acrylic" on the label. Cleanup involves soap and water.
Oil-Based Paint: Includes stains, varnishes, and enamels. Cleanup requires paint thinner or mineral spirits. These are considered Hazardous Waste.

2. How to Dispose of Latex Paint

In Howard County, latex paint is not accepted as hazardous waste because it can be safely solidified and disposed of in the regular trash.

Check the Volume

If there's only a tiny bit left, just leave the lid off and let it air dry in a well-ventilated area away from children and pets.

Use a Solidifier

For larger amounts, mix in an equal amount of kitty litter, sawdust, or a commercial paint hardener. Stir until it reaches a thick, oatmeal-like consistency.

Trash Disposal

Once the paint is completely hard and won't leak, you can place the can in your regular trash bin. Leave the lid off so the trash collector can see that the paint is solidified.

3. How to Dispose of Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes are flammable and toxic. They cannot go in the trash or down the drain.

Alpha Ridge Landfill HHW Events

Howard County residents must take oil-based paint to the Alpha Ridge Landfill (Residents' Convenience Center) located at 2350 Marriottsville Road.

When: Saturdays only, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, from April through November.

Local Junk Removal & Cleanouts

If you have a large collection of old paint cans along with other household junk, Grime To Dime can help. While we cannot transport large quantities of hazardous wet oil-based paint, we can help you sort, solidify latex paint, and haul away the rest of your clutter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pour paint down the sink?

Absolutely not. This can damage your plumbing and contaminate the local Howard County water supply.

Do local hardware stores take old paint?

Some stores like Habitat for Humanity ReStore may take full, unopened cans of usable paint. Check with your local store in Columbia or Ellicott City first.