Used motor oil contains harmful contaminants and must be disposed of correctly to protect the environment and comply with state regulations. Arkansas residents who change their own oil must understand the proper procedures for handling and recycling it.
Why Proper Motor Oil Disposal is Crucial in Arkansas
When disposed of improperly, used oil can seep into the ground and contaminate soil and drinking water sources. A single gallon of used oil can pollute one million gallons of fresh water, posing a direct threat to groundwater, rivers, and lakes throughout the state.
The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) regulates used oil disposal under Regulation 23 and the Arkansas Hazardous Waste Management Act.1Justia Law. Arkansas Hazardous Waste Management Act Of 1979 Illegally dumping oil is a violation of state law that can lead to penalties, as the primary goal of these regulations is to encourage recycling.2Justia Law. Arkansas Code § 8-9-304 – Used Motor Oil
Prohibited Disposal Methods for Used Motor Oil
Pouring oil onto the ground, into storm drains, or down the sewer system introduces toxic substances directly into the water supply. Mixing used oil with regular household trash can also lead to soil and water contamination as it leaks in landfills, and these actions are strictly forbidden.3Justia Law. Arkansas Code § 8-6-205 – Illegal Actions
Arkansas law also prohibits using used oil as a dust suppressant on roads unless it has been tested and proven to not contain hazardous materials.4Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality. State-Specific Requirements of Regulation 23 Any disposal method other than recycling or delivery to an authorized facility is subject to regulation under the state’s solid waste and hazardous waste programs.
Preparing Your Used Motor Oil for Safe Disposal
To prepare used motor oil for recycling, store it in a clean, leak-proof container with a secure, screw-on lid. Suitable options include the original motor oil bottle, a milk jug, or a container designed for used oil, as long as it can be sealed tightly to prevent spills.
Contamination of used oil with other fluids can render it unrecyclable. Do not mix motor oil with substances such as:
- Antifreeze
- Solvents
- Paint
- Gasoline
- Water
If you have different types of used oil, such as regular and synthetic, keep them in separate containers. Collection centers often have a limit on the amount of oil they will accept from a household, so confirm any quantity restrictions beforehand.
For temporary storage, keep the sealed container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and out of reach of children and pets. This minimizes the risk of spills or accidents while the oil awaits transport.
Locating Authorized Used Motor Oil Collection Sites in Arkansas
The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) provides resources on used oil management. Many county solid waste authorities also operate permanent collection centers or host periodic household hazardous waste (HHW) collection events where residents can drop off used oil.
Several national auto parts retailers with locations in Arkansas, such as AutoZone and O’Reilly Auto Parts, accept used motor oil from the public at no charge. It is recommended to call your local store to confirm their participation and inquire about their specific procedures and quantity limits.
Online resources can also help locate nearby collection sites. Websites like Earth911.com and RecycleArkansas.org offer searchable databases of recycling centers for various materials, including used motor oil.
Handling Used Oil Filters and Contaminated Oil
Used oil filters are also a recyclable material and should not be discarded in regular trash. Before recycling, a filter must be drained for at least 24 hours to remove as much residual oil as possible. The collected drippings should be added to your container of used motor oil, as many collection sites that accept used oil will also accept drained filters.
If your used motor oil accidentally becomes mixed with other substances like antifreeze or brake fluid, it is considered contaminated. This contaminated oil cannot be recycled through the standard used oil program and is treated as household hazardous waste.
For contaminated oil, you must find a designated household hazardous waste facility or a community collection event that accepts such materials. Contacting your local solid waste management district or the ADEQ is the best way to find out how to dispose of contaminated oil in your area.