Lake Region Solid Waste Authority
Serving Anderson, Coffey, Franklin, Linn, Miami, Osage, and Shawnee Counties
Used Oil Recycling
Used oil is any petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has been used and has become contaminated through normal use. Common examples include motor oil, transmission fluid, hydraulic oil, gear oil, and compressor oil.
During normal use, impurities such as dirt, metal scrapings, water, or chemicals can get mixed in with the oil, so that in time the oil no longer performs well. Eventually, this used oil must be replaced to do the job at hand. Although used oil cannot continue to perform its original job indefinitely, it is a valuable resource that can be recycled and re-refined into new lubricating oil or processed for energy recovery. ​​​​
Why is Used Oil an Environmental Concern?
Oil is insoluble, slow to degrade, and can be heavy with toxic chemicals. Just 1 gallon of dumped motor oil can contaminate 1 million gallons of fresh drinking water — a years’ supply for 50 people!
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Improper disposal of used oil can have serious environmental consequences.
Used Oil should NEVER be:
✗ Poured onto the ground
✗ Dumped into storm drains or ditches
✗ Poured into household drains or sewers
✗ Disposed of in streams, ponds, or other waterways
✗ Used as a dust suppressant or weed killer
​Kansas regulations specifically prohibit these disposal methods because used oil can contaminate soil and groundwater and harm wildlife. Proper management of used oil protects the environment and conserves natural resource.
Used Oil Regulations and Management
Used oil is governed by its own unique standards under 40 CFR Part 279 rather than traditional Hazardous Waste rules, where it is presumed that all collected used oil will eventually be recycled or burned for energy recovery. Kansas follows the federal used oil management standards and regulates used oil through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).
​​Because of this "Recycling Presumption", generators do not have to perform expensive hazardous waste testing. However, if anyone mixes the oil with other hazardous solvents or disposes of it illegally, this privilege is revoked instantly, triggering full, severe hazardous waste penalties.
What About Used Oil Filter?
Used oil filters can usually be thrown away in a permitted municipal landfill if they have been properly drained. To do this, let the filter drain for at least 12 hours or use a method that removes all free-flowing oil. For spin-on oil filters, it is recommended to puncture the dome or anti-drainback valve before draining to help the oil drain more completely.
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Whenever possible, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment encourages people to recycle used metal oil filters instead of throwing them away. Recycling helps recover valuable metal and reduces waste.
Used Oil Disposal in the Lake Region
Residents are encouraged to recycle used oil whenever possible. Depending on the county or community, disposal options may include:
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County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facilities
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Community collection events
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Participating automotive service centers or parts retailers that accept used motor oil for recycling
​​​​​​​Quick Tips for Residents:
✗ Never pour used oil onto the ground, into storm drains, or down household drains.
✓ Recycle used motor oil—don't throw it away.
✓ Store oil in a clean, leak-proof container with a tight-fitted lid.
✓ Clearly label the container "Used Oil."
✓ Keep used oil separate from antifreeze, gasoline, solvents, paint, or other chemicals.
✓ Take used oil to an approved collection site or participating retailer.
✗ Never leave used oil outside a collection site after hours
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​​Additional details are available on each of the county pages: Anderson, Coffey, Franklin, Linn, Miami, Osage, and Shawnee.​​
​​AutoZone offers FREE recycling of used motor oil and filters as part of their nationwide environmental program, where drivers can to drop off up to 5 gallons daily. The company's website details a three-step process: drain oil from the vehicle, bring it to a store, and let staff handle the recycling.
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Historical data shows AutoZone recycled 45 million pounds of oil in fiscal year 2024 alone, diverting waste from landfills.
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In 2025, over 6,000 AutoZone stores participated, recycling more than 120 million gallons annually according to industry estimates!!
Competitors like O'Reilly and Advance Auto Parts match AutoZone's free oil recycling, with similar limits. Jiffy Lube accepts during services, while Walmart Tire centers handle filters.