Guide to Managing Used Antifreeze
This resource has been developed by Pinellas County Solid Waste to provide businesses with guidance on how to properly manage wastes in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
What is used antifreeze?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency defines used antifreeze, or coolant, as a freeze protection and heat transfer medium for motor vehicles, heavy equipment and buildings that may contain dissolved heavy metals.
Why can’t it be placed in the garbage or dumped?
Used antifreeze contains ethylene or propylene glycol, and can also contain heavy metals such as lead. The State encourages proper recycling to ensure that it be properly managed to prevent contamination of our drinking water and environment.
Proper Management of Used Antifreeze
Used antifreeze is exempt from hazardous waste regulation if it is properly recycled. Follow these best management practices below for proper recycling.
Used Antifreeze Storage
- Use dedicated antifreeze collection equipment. This would include collection funnels, transfer pans or buckets and storage containers (drums or tanks).
- Transfer used antifreeze immediately to a dedicated storage container that is:
- In good condition and used solely for antifreeze;
- Kept closed except when adding or removing used antifreeze;
- Protected from weather and located in a secure area; and
- Inspected at least weekly to check for signs of leaks or deterioration caused by corrosion or other factors. Replace leaking containers immediately.
Used Antifreeze Labeling
- Label all containers (including drums, dollies, buckets and pans) with the words “Used Antifreeze.”
- Label reconditioned or recycled antifreeze storage containers with the words “Reconditioned Antifreeze” or “Recycled Antifreeze.”
Recycling
Use the Where Does It Go? Search Tool For Businesses to find used antifreeze recycling options.
Recordkeeping
Keep recycling receipts to demonstrate that your used antifreeze has been properly managed.
Additional Resources
- Where Does It Go? Search Tool
- Recycle Guide & Downloadable Signage
- Household Chemical Collection
- Collection: Trash & Recycling
- Hours: Solid Waste Disposal Complex
- Disposal Fee Information
- Educational Resources: Trash and Recycling
- Recycling FAQ
- Map of Recycling Drop-Off Centers
- Artificial Reef Program
- Mulch Pickup Program
- For Businesses: Trash & Recycling Resources
- How Mixed Recycling Works In Pinellas County
- Video Library: Trash and Recycling
- Holiday and Gift-Giving Guide
- Pinellas Partners in Recycling
- Waste-to-Energy Facility
- Bridgeway Acres Landfill
- Solid Waste Master Plan
- Solid Waste Disposal Accounts
- Lealman Trash and Recycling Collection
- Tampa Bay Recycles
- Why Recycling Is Important
- Discover Careers with Pinellas County Solid Waste
Contact Us
For more information or to request a printed copy of this guide, contact the Pinellas County Small Quantity Generator Program at (727) 464-7500 or at bwa@pinellas.gov.
Updated on Sept. 16, 2026.