Paint disposal
Domestic quantities (maximum 20 litres) are accepted free of charge at:
- Surf Beach Community Recycling Centre all year round
- Council's annual chemical clean out.
You can take empty paint tins to any of Council's waste management facilities, free of charge.
If you don't want to want until the annual chemical clean out, the best way to dispose of paint is to use it up, or give it to someone who can, such as:
- friends and neighbours
- community service organisations
- theatre groups
- pony clubs
- schools and day care centres, etc.
Paint is a hazardous waste
- Paint contains solvents and metals that are poisonous to humans and the environment.
- When paint is disposed of improperly - in the garbage, down a drain or on the ground - these chemicals can contaminate lakes, rivers and the underground water system.
- For this reason, you should never put paint into the garbage bin.
How to tell if paint is still good
Paint stays in good condition for a long time: oil-based paint lasts for up to 15 years and latex paint lasts for up to 10 years. As a general rule, paint that is labelled, fills at least one-third of its container, hasn't been frozen and thawed repeatedly and mixes when stirred, can still be used.
If your latex paint has been frozen, brush a small amount on a sheet of newspaper. If there are no lumps, it hasn't been damaged and can be used.
Avoid future paint disposal problems
Try to:
- buy only the amount of paint you need - measure the space you need to paint and ask the hardware or paint store personnel to help you buy the right amount
- use up leftover paint before you buy more
- avoid purchasing exotic colours that you will not be able to use for another project
- apply another coat to use up leftover paint
- store cans of leftover paint with the lid side down to prolong its shelf life. Be sure the lid is tightly closed. The paint will seal the can to prevent hardening or moisture damage. Store cans in a dry area where the paint won't freeze.